BIG TROUBLE WITH A LITTLE PHOSPHATE

Too Much Phosphorus Negatively Impacts Natural Waters

• The overgrowth of algae sets off a chain reaction in a waterway’s ecosystem.
• Algae grow on or near the surface of the water and reduce the penetration of light into the water, which diminishes the function of plants in deeper waters.
• Dying algae settle to the bottom, and their decomposition consumes large amounts of oxygen in the water.
• Lower oxygen levels result in the death of desirable fish ecosystem. All of these consequences negatively impact the recreational and functional use of the water.

There have been numerous problems all over the world resulting from human-caused eutrophication. Many coastal areas around the world experience "dead zones" each year as rivers overloaded with phosphorus and nitrogen empty into the ocean. Despite the size and range of the problems stemming from human-caused eutrophication, some places are having great success reversing the problems with reductions in phosphate use. Voluntary and mandatory restrictions on phosphate-containing detergents helps reduce the amount of phosphorus concentrations in our waterways.

The Problem with Dishwasher Detergents
Diswasher detergents seem to be the exception to regulations that reduce phospates in detergents. A lack of safe and cost-effective alternative solutions for dishwasher detergents resulted in regulation loopholes allowing dishwasher detergent manufacturers to continue to include large amounts of phosphates. According to one study, dishwasher detergents contributed from 15% - 20% of the phosphorus entering a wastewater treatment plant, and eventually the environment.

What Can You Do? You can help reduce the problem of human-caused eutrophication by using detergents that are made without phosphates. When you compare phosphate-free Diamond Brite with grocery store brand dishwashing detergents - which often contain nearly 9% phosphates - it's easy to see how you can make a difference. And besides, Diamond Brite is concentrated to use 1/4 as much as other detergents, saving you lots of money and sparing landfills from unnecessary waste. Learn more about our complete line of phosphate-free cleaners and detergents from EcoSense.