What are the potential environmental impacts of collection system failures?

The chosen answer highlights a serious consequence of collection system failures. When a sewage or stormwater collection system fails, it can lead to the release of untreated or partially treated wastewater into the environment. This discharge can contaminate nearby water bodies, including rivers, lakes, and oceans, carrying harmful pathogens, chemicals, and nutrients that disrupt the natural balance of aquatic ecosystems.

Contamination can result in significant harm to aquatic life; organisms may suffer from illness or death due to exposure to toxic substances, which can disrupt food chains and lead to biodiversity loss. Additionally, contaminated water affects water quality, posing risks to human health through water supply sources and recreation activities, such as swimming or fishing.

The other options do not accurately reflect the impacts of collection system failures. Increased urban development does not relate directly to environmental impacts caused by failures. Improved water quality is the opposite effect of contamination, which collection system failures would cause. Enhanced recreational activities would likely be negatively impacted due to the pollution entering water bodies, making it unsafe for such activities. Hence, the correct answer identifies the critical environmental risks associated with these system failures.