Groundwater pollution refers to the contamination of underground water sources by harmful substances such as chemicals, fertilizers, pesticides, or industrial waste.
Related terms
Point source pollution: Pollution that comes from a single identifiable source like an industrial facility or sewage treatment plant.
Non-point source pollution: Pollution that comes from multiple diffuse sources rather than one specific location like runoff from agricultural fields or urban areas.
Water quality standards: Guidelines set by regulatory agencies specifying acceptable levels of contaminants in water bodies for various uses such as drinking water or aquatic life support.