What is a potential hazard of not properly treating wastewater?

The potential hazard of not properly treating wastewater is the contamination of freshwater sources. When wastewater is discharged untreated or inadequately treated, it can introduce harmful pollutants and pathogens into nearby rivers, lakes, or groundwater. These contaminants can severely compromise the quality of freshwater supplies, making them unsafe for drinking, irrigation, and recreation. This not only poses health risks to humans and animals but can also disrupt ecosystems that rely on clean water.

In contrast, improved water quality, enhanced aquatic life, and decreased operational efficiency are not direct hazards associated with improper wastewater treatment. Improved water quality and enhanced aquatic life usually result from proper treatment and management of wastewater. Additionally, decreased operational efficiency may arise for other reasons within a treatment plant, but it does not represent a direct hazard to the environment as contamination does.