What are sources of pollutants in storm water run-off?

Stormwater runoff can pick up a variety of pollutants as it flows over surfaces and through environments. When considering spilled products as a source of pollutants in stormwater runoff, it is essential to understand that these substances can include a wide range of chemicals and materials—such as oils, pesticides, fertilizers, and household cleaners—depending on what was spilled.

These products, if not properly contained, can easily be washed into gutters, drains, and ultimately into waterways during rainfall. As the stormwater flows, it acts like a conveyor belt, transporting these products directly into the stormwater management system without undergoing any treatment, which can lead to environmental degradation and harm to aquatic ecosystems.

In contrast, other choices like industrial waste and domestic sewage typically originate from specific sources, often managed through treatment systems that can mitigate their impact. Pesticide applications, while still a contributor to stormwater pollution, are more about the residue left on surfaces rather than spills. Thus, spilled products represent a direct and often immediate input of pollutants into the stormwater system, making this the most accurate choice regarding sources of pollutants in stormwater runoff.