Water pollution can occur from sewage, fertilizers, pesticides, herbicides, and toxic substances. Sewage from human waste can spread pollution and disease if not properly processed. Fertilizers can contaminate drinking water and cause eutrophication when too much runs off into streams, promoting excessive algal growth that depletes oxygen levels and kills aquatic life. Pesticides and herbicides washed into rivers also kill plant and animal life. Toxic chemicals build up in food chains and can cause health issues.