General Effects

• Chlorine kills necessary bacteria and other small organisms in the soil. This affects everything all the way up the food chain.
  
  

Effects on Human Health

• Chlorine is very damaging to the human respiratory system. In addition, almost all chemicals commonly used in pools are skin and eye irritants, and might be damaging to the immune system.
  
  

Prevention/Solution

• If you must use pool chemicals, handle them carefully and dispose of them properly to help protect you and the environment. De-chlorinate water before releasing it, and call your local recycling center for information on disposing of hazardous waste.
  
  

Alternatives

• Ozonators reduce the need for chemicals. Electronic water purification uses ions such as copper and silver to eliminate the need for chemicals.
  
  

Misconceptions

• Saltwater pools are touted as an eco-friendly alternative to chemical-laden pools, but salt actually kills plants.