Which pollutants are commonly found in urban runoff?

Urban runoff is typically a mixture of various contaminants that result from rainfall or snowmelt moving over surfaces within urban areas. The correct choice identifies a range of commonly found pollutants, including oil, grease, pesticides, and plastics.

Oil and grease often originate from vehicles, machinery, and industrial activities, surfacing during rain events when water washes these substances off roads and parking lots. Pesticides can leach into the runoff from landscaped areas, gardens, and agricultural practices near urban settings. Plastics enter the environment through littering and waste disposal that is not properly managed, contributing further to the pollution load in urban runoff.

This combination of pollutants is particularly concerning because it can lead to significant environmental impacts, including harm to aquatic ecosystems, degradation of water quality, and potential risks to public health. Recognizing these specific contaminants is crucial for developing effective stormwater management practices and pollution prevention strategies within urban landscapes.

The other options focus on a narrower range of pollutants or lack the variety present in urban runoff, thus highlighting the comprehensive nature of the pollutants identified in the correct answer.