In a recent report, Ontario was urged to do more to investigate whether potentially dangerous chemicals in the water supply coming from everyday shampoos, soaps and pharmaceuticals pose a threat to people’s health and the ecosystem. And really, this isn’t just an Ontario problem - it is global.

The chemicals showing up in water around the world come from: Run-off containing chemicals used on farms. Antibiotics or other discarded medication poured down the toilet or sink. Medication found in human waste. Run-off from antibacterial soaps and shampoos. They travel through the septic system and can make their way back into source and drinking water because sewage treatment plants aren’t equipped to get rid of them.