Tag: Septic systems

Approximately 18 billion gallons of water are flushed down American toilets every day, propelling waste on its journey. But what happens to urine after you flush it? The process is a sophisticated blend of engineering, chemistry, and biology, designed to protect both public health and our planet's waterways.

While the saying "if it's yellow, let it mellow" exists, a staggering amount of people are unaware of the significant health and home maintenance issues that arise when you don't flush your urine. Ignoring this basic sanitation practice can lead to a cascade of problems, impacting not just your bathroom but your entire plumbing system over time.

According to the United Nations, around 80% of the world's wastewater is discharged without adequate treatment, highlighting a global health and environmental concern. Understanding where water goes after it drains is a critical first step toward appreciating the complex systems protecting our water quality and overall public health.