What should be done with pollutants found on a construction site?

Storing pollutants in a secure area is essential for several reasons. Proper storage helps prevent contaminants from being inadvertently released into the environment, which could lead to soil and water pollution. By designating a secure area, construction sites can ensure that hazardous materials are managed responsibly and are less likely to be disturbed or accidentally spilled. This practice helps in compliance with environmental regulations and reduces the risk of legal repercussions for improper disposal.

Additionally, secure storage measures often include safeguards like secondary containment, which can further minimize the risk of leaks or spills. It’s an important step in the overall strategy to mitigate stormwater pollution, thereby protecting local ecosystems and water sources.

The other options fail to address the environmental risks associated with inappropriate handling of pollutants. For example, washing pollutants away with water could lead to further contamination of nearby water bodies. Disposing of pollutants in the nearest water body is illegal and harmful to aquatic life. Lastly, ignoring minor pollutants does not mitigate their potential cumulative impact on the environment, and can lead to larger issues over time.