Which of the following is a potential consequence of a Combined Sewer Overflow (CSO)?

A Combined Sewer Overflow (CSO) occurs when the capacity of the combined sewer system is exceeded, often during heavy rainfall or snowmelt. As a result, the excess stormwater and sewage are discharged into nearby water bodies without treatment. This leads to environmental pollution, which can harm aquatic life, degrade water quality, and pose health risks to human populations.

The discharge from a CSO typically contains pathogens, nutrients, and other pollutants that can lead to algal blooms and other ecological disturbances. Therefore, identifying environmental pollution as a potential consequence aligns with the understanding of how CSOs impact ecosystems and public health.

In contrast, options such as water conservation, improved sewer functionality, and increased water pressure do not accurately represent the outcomes associated with CSOs. Water conservation would not typically result from CSOs; rather, it is a goal associated with managing water use. Improved sewer functionality suggests an enhancement in the system's capability, which is not a direct result of an overflow situation. Lastly, increased water pressure is not a consequence of CSOs but relates more to system design and function under normal operating conditions. Thus, the identification of environmental pollution as the correct consequence of a CSO is well-founded based on these considerations.