What is an essential factor contributing to environmental water quality?

An essential factor contributing to environmental water quality is the balance of nutrients. Nutrients, such as nitrogen and phosphorus, are crucial for aquatic ecosystems as they support the growth of plants and algae. However, when these nutrients are present in excessive amounts, often due to runoff from fertilizers or sewage, they can lead to problems like algal blooms. These blooms can deplete oxygen levels in the water, harm aquatic life, and negatively affect overall water quality.

While the presence of harmful chemicals, the temperature of water bodies, and the clarity of water can also influence water quality, they do not encompass the broader implications and biological dynamics that nutrient balance does. Nutrients are foundational to the ecological health of water bodies, and maintaining their balance is critical for sustaining clean water and supporting biodiversity.