Which of the following best describes the outcome of ignoring elevated contaminant levels?

Ignoring elevated contaminant levels can lead to significant long-term environmental and health risks. Contaminants in water can stem from various sources, including industrial runoff, agricultural practices, and sewage discharge. When these contaminants exceed safe levels and are not addressed, they can cause chronic exposure issues for humans and wildlife. This can result in serious health problems, including developmental issues, neurological disorders, and increased rates of certain diseases. Additionally, ignoring such contamination can lead to long-lasting damage to ecosystems, affecting biodiversity and the balance of aquatic life. Therefore, acknowledging and acting on elevated contaminant levels is crucial to safeguard both human health and the environment.