South Florida faces a unique set of environmental challenges. From littering and illegal dumping to leaking septic tanks contaminating the bay, and the release of pet snakes into the wild, these issues are putting the region’s ecosystems and millions of residents at risk. As polluted waters and vanishing habitats worsen, here are the top five environmental concerns impacting our community.
Septic tank leaks in Biscayne Bay
Septic tanks in South Florida pose a major risk of leaking. (Courtesy Florida Archives)
Biscayne Bay, one of South Florida’s most critical bodies of water, has been contaminated by leaky septic tanks and thousands of gallons of spilled sewage from underwater pipes. Despite state and federal programs to build a sewer system, there’s a long history of groundwater contaminated with deadly E. coli bacteria that kills fish and sickens people when it reaches the bay. According to author Michael Smith, back in 2020, 27,000 fish died in Biscayne Bay due to septic tank runoff. These leaks have become a recurring issue in recent years, polluting our H2O with harmful bacteria and nutrients. This poses a serious threat to marine life, local fisheries, and the overall health of our water systems, jeopardizing the livelihoods of those who depend on it.
Incinerator emissions
A waste incinerator facility in South Florida. (Courtesy pinellas.gov)
South Florida’s waste incinerators are another major environmental concern. While they help manage large volumes of waste, the emissions they produce contribute to air pollution, releasing toxins and greenhouse gasses. These harmful emissions affect both public health and wildlife, particularly in areas near these facilities. According to the Florida Museum, Florida is currently the country’s waste incineration capital, with 10 facilities combusting 8% of its municipal solid waste – over 4 million tons in 2020. Stricter regulations may be necessary to protect the long-term air quality in the region. Last year, Doral was covered in ash after its incinerator burned down in a massive fire. Recently, the Miami Herald reported that Miami-Dade plans to build the biggest waste-to-energy facility in the United States.
Invasive species threaten local ecosystems
Invasive Burmese pythons in South Florida threaten native wildlife. (Courtesy NPS.gov)
Invasive species like Burmese pythons and lionfish are wreaking havoc on South Florida’s ecosystems. These species disrupt the natural balance, preying on native wildlife and damaging delicate ecosystems like the Everglades. According to the University of Florida, while experts have labeled as invasive just 4 percent of plant species found in Florida, those species account for 33 percent of the state’s total plant biomass, threatening biodiversity. The economic and ecological impacts are significant, as these species outcompete local flora and fauna, making it difficult for native species to survive. Since 2013, a total of 917 pythons have been removed as a result of the Florida Python Challenge. The Fort Myers News Press reported that the 2023 Florida Python Challenge removed 209 invasive Burmese pythons from the Everglades.
Rising sea levels
Miami Beach faces increasing threats from rising sea levels. (Courtesy Miami Beach)
With South Florida’s low-lying geography, rising sea levels are a looming threat. Miami Beach, in particular, has experienced increased flooding and coastal erosion. Miami-Dade County reported that salt water is pushing into the freshwater Biscayne Aquifer, which provides much of the region’s drinking water. This environmental challenge threatens homes and businesses as the salt water makes its way into freshwater.
Deforestation and urban expansion
Mangroves in Biscayne Bay play a crucial role in protecting shorelines. (Courtesy Miami-Dade)
Rapid urban development in South Florida has led to widespread deforestation. As cities expand, more green spaces are sacrificed, leading to habitat loss for native wildlife and reduced biodiversity. The UAB Institute for Human Rights Blog found that the Florida Everglades, which included 4,000 square miles, has been reduced to about half its original size.
