What exactly is bleach and is it bad for the environment?
Yes.. and No. Chlorine bleach is a powerful oxidizing agent that is commonly used as a disinfectant and a whitening agent in household cleaning products. When bleach is used in large quantities, it can contribute to water pollution, harm aquatic life, and have negative effects on human health.
Sodium hypochlorite, commonly known as bleach, is not only a synthetic substance but a naturally occurring compound as well. It is produced through the process of electrolysis, where a solution of sodium chloride (NaCl) is subjected to electric current, resulting in the formation of sodium hypochlorite (NaOCl), which combines with water, chlorine, and sodium hydroxide (NaOH). This process mimics the natural way in which the body produces hypochlorous acid (HOCl), an important antibacterial agent.
Bleach's rapid breakdown into its original form of sodium chloride also ensures that it does not have a lasting impact on the environment. Studies have shown that bleach degrades quickly into harmless components, including water and salt. Furthermore, bleach's disinfecting properties make it an effective cleaning agent, particularly in medical facilities and households where the use of antibacterial agents is critical to maintaining hygiene.
However, it's important to note that bleach can react with organic matter and form harmful byproducts, such as dioxins, when disposed of improperly in waterways or wastewater treatment systems. Dioxins are persistent organic pollutants that can accumulate in the environment, posing a risk to human and animal health. It's crucial to handle and dispose of bleach properly to prevent its harmful effects on the environment.
References:
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. (2016). Bleach Fact Sheet. Retrieved from https://www.epa.gov/sites/production/files/2016-09/documents/bleach.pdf
Shah, A. D., & Sobsey, M. D. (2011). The effectiveness of sodium hypochlorite disinfection in reducing the risks of waterborne infectious diseases: a literature review. Journal of Water and Health, 9(3), 417-430.