FAQ

A RiverSafe Carwash is an environmentally friendly carwash that protects rivers, lakes and aquatic habitat from driveway pollutants (oil and grease) and chemicals used in detergents. RiverSafe Carwashes are held either at approved commercial carwashes or in parking lots using an environmental containment pad.

Everyone! Muncipalities, hotels, youth groups, universities, and home owners. It starts with you. Take a stand for your environment. RiverSafe Carwashes protect our rivers and lakes from harmful pollutants that contaminate our water resources, impair fish habitat, threaten drinking water, and limit our enjoyment of swimming, fishing, and other water activities.

Organize a RiverSafe Carwash, instead of a parking lot fundraiser. Stop washing your car at home. Take your car to a RiverSafe Carwash. Order brochures to teach others about RiverSafe practices.

Although it's a summer hobby for many North Americans, washing your car in a driveway or parking lot causes environmental damage. Wastewater from driveway washing usually runs onto the street and enters storm sewers that lead directly to nearby creeks, rivers or lakes. This wastewater often includes oxygen-depleting detergents, engine grime, oil & grease and metals which all impair water quality, aquatic habitat and recreational opportunities.

Common pollutants found in carwash wastewater include nonylphenols and nonylphenol ethoxylates, Bis(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate, Total PAHs (oils & grease), and zinc. (City of Toronto, Works and Emergency Services, 2002)

Detergents concentrations of only 2ppm (parts per million) strip away a fish' s protective coating, causing it to absorb double the amount of chemicals it would normally. Detergents concentrations as low as 5ppm will kill fish eggs. Detergents also contain nonylphenol ethoxylates (NPEs), a designated CEPA toxic substance. Significant fish kills occur near detergent concentrations of 15ppm.