Phosphates were once a common component of laundry detergents because they soften water. Why has their use been restricted?

Question

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Phosphates are plant nutrients that lead to excess algae growth, a process known as eutrophication. Excess algae growth can cause water bodies to become overcrowded and deplete oxygen, leading to the death of aquatic wildlife. The use of phosphates in laundry detergents has been restricted to mitigate this problem.

Phosphates Were Once a Common Component of Laundry Detergents Because