The Global Effects of Polluted Water

The Global Effects of Polluted Water

by | Sep 14, 2020 | Environment, Water

The Global Effects of Polluted Water

“Contaminated water supplies are killing more people daily than the 2020 Pandemic. It is the biggest health risk to all of mankind …threatening both quality of life and public health. It’s the biggest and most difficult crisis the world has to face.“

Even though drinking water quality may vary in different parts of the world, water pollution is a problem that all of us should be aware of. Water Pollution and contamination is an increasing topic of concern, and all the health risks involved should be well understood.

It is estimated that over 90% of all water ways is contaminated.

Drinking water pollution

What exactly is contaminated water?

Water is said to be contaminated once pollutants are introduced to render it unsafe and unacceptable for human consumption, or unable to support human life. The contaminates can take several different forms, bacteria, chemicals, and pollutants.

A Worldwide Crisis

According to the Australian National Health and Research Council reports, there are too many examples that are directly contributing to drinking water pollution that cause an inexcusable adverse impact on human health. The most prevalent cause of widespread health risk associated with drinking water is contamination, either directly or indirectly, by human or animal excreta and the microorganisms contained in feces.”

Pathogenic microorganisms in the water are the most significant risks to your health. Waterborne pathogens can cause outbreaks of illness in communities, in some cases causing death.

Dangers and Consequences

Pathogenic microorganisms are disease-producing microorganisms such as viruses, bacterial diseases, and parasitic worms.

What is a virus?

A virus is a microscopic parasite of plants, animals, and bacteria in well water that can cause disease.

Some of the more common viral infections affecting world water today are Gastroenteritis (cause of diarrhea), Hepatitis A, Polio, Dengue Fever, Salmonella infection, and dysentery.

 

Different ways t Filter

What is a bacterial disease?

Bacteria are single-celled, microscopic organisms found in all environments. These environments include soil, water, and the bodies of animals and humans.
Some of the more common bacterial diseases affecting world water today are Cholera, E.coli, Dysentery, Salmonella, and Typhoid Fever.

What is a parasitic worm?

Parasitic worms are organisms that feed on their living host, using them as a source of nourishment and protection. Parasitic worms live in the intestines and other organs. They disrupt their hosts’ nutrient absorption, which causes disease and illness in humans.  Some of the most common by parasitic worm related diseases affecting world water today are Guinea Worm Disease, Schistosomiasis, Enterokinases, Ascariasis, and Tapeworms.

How are our waters polluted?

When it rains, the water picks up human and animal feces and harmful chemicals from the ground. These travel with the water and end up in rivers, lakes, and underground water supplies.

In most cases, water pollution begins at the water source. One source is above ground contamination known as Surface water contamination. The other is underground contaminants referred to groundwater.

Surface water contamination starts once the rain starts falling from the sky. The rainwater becomes contaminated from collecting air contaminates, known as acid rain, or collects pollutants in stormwater, pesticides from farming or gardens, or industrial waste. These all flow into rivers, lakes, and dams, our water source.

The groundwater, as the name implies, is from below the surface and retrieved wells or extracted from the ground for public water supplies. Groundwater can be polluted by contaminants that drain into the water source from; landfills and septic systems, careless disposal of hazardous products, chemicals used in farming and agriculture, and leaking underground storage tanks.

Virtually every water source for consumption on this planet is contaminated. Most developed countries decontaminated the water before providing for public use. The decontaminated water is processed through several modern water treatment techniques and extensive, large, and costly facilities.

However, this decontamination, in itself, introduces its own dangers. Often Strong chemicals are used in the water treatment process. These chemicals can be harmful when consumed over long periods.

According to the Global Healing Centre, some of the proven effects of long term exposure to strong chemicals in drinking water include brain damage, Alzheimer’s disease, dementia, and cancer.

Some of the most common chemicals affecting world water today are Fluoride, Chlorine, mercury, PCB’s (a man-made chemical), MTBE (contained in gasoline), Dioxin, HCB (hexachlorobenzene), DDT (an organochlorine insecticide).

In less developed countries where the toxic waste management is not as strict, toxic metals wastes are illegally dumped and allowed to leach into the water systems and supplies. The toxic metals include arsenic, barium, chromium, lead, mercury, and silver, and can cause acute poisoning and cancer, as well as other health effects.

chemical tasting water

Diarrhea – A Global Epidemic

The biggest world spread disaster of contaminated water is diarrhea.

The World Health Organization has pinpointed diarrhea as a prominent fatality, causing 4% of all deaths worldwide. There are over 4 billion cases of diarrhea worldwide every year and growing. In 2019, diarrhea was estimated to have killed over 3.2 million people. A large percentage are under the age of 5 years living in 3rd world countries.

In developed countries, it is also prevalent and should not be discounted by 2.3 deaths per 100,000 people in the US dying.

How an individual can help to Reduce Water Pollution

“…water pollution is a problem that all of us are aware of. It’s all around us, from the air we breathe to rubbish in our streets, to the waste from our factories, and to the exhaust from our cars. All this pollution eventually makes its way water sources, dams, lakes, and underground reserves. Water Pollution and its contamination must be a topic of concern for the community to business and community leaders. The health risks impact should be well understood.”

The world pollution and contaminants that leach into the water can be substantially reduced if everyone takes a little responsibility and action for their own contribution to pollution.

The leading cause of water pollution is the greenhouse gases created from the industry and the generation of power. China is the main culprit contributing over 30%, followed by a distant second in the US at 15%, then India at 7%. These three make over 50%. Australia contributes 1.07%.

Notwithstanding the above, every little bit counts. This is easier than most people may think. It all starts with taking precautions at home, traveling to work, and while doing leisure activities. Here are several small things you personally can undertake do help;

  • Don’t litter, and be sure to recycle.
  • Don’t throw chemicals, oils, paints, or medicines down the drain
  • Use environmentally friendly household cleaning products
  • Plant trees and plants around your home to improve the natural filtration process in the ground. This will stop nasty chemicals draining into natural water systems.
  • Don’t overuse pesticides and fertilizers
  • Reduce home power consumption by turning off lights, reduce heating levels, avoid air-conditioning
  • Consolidate car travel, plan better use of the car
  • Use public transport
  • Reduce the unnecessary buying of products like excessive clothing (significant energy is required to produce them)

Almost any every day household activity can translate into water pollution. From the fertilizers in your garden to the oil from driveways, to paint and solvent residues from walls and decks, and even pet feces. When it rains, these are all washed into the stormwater sewage systems as well as rivers, streams, and lakes. These are all water sources where we get our drinking water from and how contaminated the source determines the quality of our drinking water.

Here are a few easy and essential steps in preventing water pollution around the home and daily life activities:

Have fewer hard surfaces

Hard surfaces such as asphalt and concrete don’t allow the water to seep into the ground. It reduces the runoff of your property into the stormwater systems.

Good alternatives to solid surfaces would be grass, gravel, deck wood, paving stones, or interlocking bricks. These all allow water to run into the soil. You can also control where the water on your roof flows by redirecting your gutters. It’s best to position them so that rainwater flows off into the garden where it can seep into the soil.

In the Garden

You should always use chemical-free, natural fertilizers like compost. It is easy to create your own compost at home by buying a compost bin. This helps keep waste from becoming landfill. Alternatively, you could use natural fertilizers, soil conditioners, or rotted manure. These will all help your soil retain moisture and keep your minimize your pollution.

Be sure not to overwater your garden. A large percentage of household water use and wastage is due to home irrigation systems. If your garden isn’t flat, try not to use an inefficient sprinkler system that doesn’t cover all areas of your garden. Try soaker hoses instead.

By having a simple rain gauge, you will know exactly how much water your garden is getting and will require. This way, you know not to water your garden if you don’t need to.

Overwatering gardens is one of the main reasons for chemicals draining from the soil and running into water systems.

Recycle Recycle -Throw Away Household Products Properly

Ideally, before you choose your everyday household products, you should be looking out for non-toxic alternatives. You can research products on your chosen supermarket website and take note of the environmentally friendly products.

Please make sure the waste products that they make their way into the recycling bin or whatever recycling program your city or town offers. The central concept is to avoid as much as possible to recycle everything possible to ensure that it does not reach to the rubbish tips. It will make a difference.

Reduce your energy consumption

One of the significant contributions to water pollution is energy generation, vehicle, household, and factory greenhouse emissions. Not only it pollutes our waterways, but it also is a significant contribution to global warming.

Every individual on the planet can reduce emissions. Below are a few small tips that will make a difference.

  • Wear a jumper at home rather than turn up the household heating.
  • In hot weather, increase the air-conditioning temperature a few degrees higher
  • Plan your vehicle travels to be more fuel-efficient
  • Keep your showers time to a minimal
  • Turn power of completely from idle electronic equipment
  • Turn off household lights when not in the room
  • Use blinds to reduce heating of the home on hot days and heating loss on cold days
Tips for stopping water Pollution

Educate Yourself

Lastly, go onto local government websites to find information on your local water situation. This way, you can know the risks you face and aim to make a difference in your community.

Be an activist in all the movements for better protection of our environment. With your support, laws will be made, and ultimately, the change will be made for the better of our planet

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Cryptosporidiosis

Cryptosporidiosis

by | Sep 10, 2020 | Water

Cryptosporidiosis

Cryptosporidiosis is a common illness caused by contact with a single-celled parasite called cryptosporidium. Although not discovered until 1976, cryptosporidiosis is one of the most common waterborne diseases. It can be fatal to those who are already in a vulnerable physical condition, such as pregnant women or anyone with HIV, AIDS, or cancer.

The most common symptom of cryptosporidiosis is watery diarrhea. However, some experience nausea, vomiting, abdominal cramps, and dehydration. Those with cryptosporidiosis usually experience symptoms between two and seven days after ingesting contaminated water. Symptoms typically last less than two weeks.

Diarrhoeal parasite spreads through contaminated water

Cyrpto Disease

Cryptosporidiosis can be found in any country but is more common in developing countries due to low-quality sanitation facilities and a lack of access to safe water. Cryptosporidiosis makes up 50.8% of parasitical waterborne diseases. In many developing countries, the rate of cryptosporidiosis is exceptionally high, making up 8-19% of all diarrheal diseases.

Unfortunately, there isn’t a failsafe way to treat cryptosporidiosis. The best one can do to drink lots of safe, clean water, replace electrolytes, and get plenty of rest. In severe cases, diarrhea medication and intravenous fluids can be used. However, this isn’t necessary for most people.

 

Different ways t Filter

Final Say

The most reliable way to avoid cryptosporidiosis is to make sure you don’t ingest contaminated water from any source. Invest in a good water purification system that is failsafe against cryptosporidium and avoid swimming in unsanitary water.

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About Water – Filtration and Purification Techniques

About Water – Filtration and Purification Techniques

by | Sep 4, 2020 | Water

About Water – Filtration and Purification Techniques

As our most precious resource, water is becoming more and more contamination through man-made pollution, the increase, and severity of the disease, an increase in the ozone layer, deforestation of rain forests. This is evident through the rapid yearly increase in waterborne illness and diseases. Our scientists are working on ways to reverse this cycle through technologies and processes.

To help us understand what is available this section of the web is dedicated to an introduction to water and technologies available for water filtration and or purification

Did you know  their is about 5.5 trillion macro and microplastic pieces in out our seas.  About 8 million plastic bottles get washed into our oceans each DAY!!

water moleculer atams

Water Technology Principals

There are a large number of different technologies that can be employed to filter, sterilize, and purify water to make it palatable and safe to drink. Many of these technologies have been around for many years. New technologies and processes are continually being introduced to enhance the quality of water. With pollution, population growth, deforestation, and growing.

Here are some of the mainstream filtration, sterilization, and purification processes;population, water contamination is becoming an increasing problem across the globe.

Here are some of the mainstream filtration, sterilization, and purification processes;

  • Micro-Filtration
  • Nano Filtration
  • Electrochemical
  • Iodine Disinfection
  • Chlorine Disinfection
  • Chlorine Dioxide Disinfection
  • Ultra Violet light
  • Reverse Osmosis
  • Granulated Activated Carbon
  • Distillation
  • Ozonation
  • KDF Resin
  • Solid Carbon Block
  • Water Boiling
Different ways t Filter

Each of these filtration, purification, and/or sterilization processes can be effective to some degree and have a place for use in particular circumstances. Some of the methods remove bacteria, some also virus’s and some chemicals and pesticides.

When assessing the effectiveness of each of the processes, many considerations need to be assessed. This includes;

  • Flow rate of the water through the process (for example, in the ionization process, is there sufficient electrical polarisation happening,
  • Chemical concentrations required to destroy bacteria and cysts,
  • Light penetration of the technology into the water, for example, for UV purification, does the UV penetrate all the water passing by and for sufficient time.

Water Guidelines and Standards

There are several global organizations and governmental organizations that provide both guidelines and legally enforceable standards regarding water quality and safety. In some countries that are part of the health, others part of the Environment and some completely separate organizations.

All these organizations and governmental organizations have a common agenda of making water safe. They do this by predominately by setting the maximum level of a contaminant, including bacteria, viruses, metals, chemicals, radiological hazards, toxic chemicals, infectious agents, pesticides, herbicides to ensure that the water we drink, swim, and bathe in to be safe. Some of the higher-profile heath water agencies include;

Water Quality Organisation
FDA
World Health Organisation

World Health Organisation

World Health Organisation (WHO) Is a United Nations Organization that oversees and manages the UN policies and guidelines concerning any health-related matter, and this includes water.

Environmental Protection Agency United States

Environmental Protection Agency

United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is a regulatory authority aimed at protecting human health and the Environment.

Water Regulations and Guidelines

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WHO Water Guidelines

The WHO Guidelines for Drinking Water Quality is a very comprehensive 668-page document covering areas of water quality targets, management plans, Risk Assessments, Audits, Surveillance, Planning, Affordability, Sanitations, Desalination, Water Harvesting.

About Water

Commonly referred to as H20, Aqua, goldern liquid is one of the most important ingredients to the human race, with the body made up of up to 78%. The globe is covered by over 76% of the water, of which only 12% is drinkable. It can exist in gas, liquid, ubiquitous and solid forms. Water is the only common substance found in these states naturally. Water is colorless, odorless, and tasteless.

One of the attributes to water is that substances can be dissolved in water (such as minerals), bacteria can grow in water, fish can live in water. Because of this attribute, water is very rarely pure. For humans, pure water is not as ideal as we require mineral and XXX to be included to stay healthy.

The water molecule is very small, measuring only 0.278 Nanometers (0.278 x10-9 m or .000278 x 10-6m or 0.000278 microns)

Molecular Structure

A water molecule consists of two hydrogen and one oxygen atoms weighing 18g/molecule. They are polar covalently bonded together, forming a V-shaped molecule. Water molecules are typically symmetric. Each molecule has a slightly more positive and slightly more negative side.

This is because the water molecules are polar covalently bonded, which is share electrons unequally. Other non-water polar molecules can surround the water molecule.

 

H2O molecule construction

One interesting fact about water is that unlike many substances, when water is at 4C or less, water stars to expand, meaning that density is less in a frozen state. When water is referred to as hard water, it often means that it contains a higher than average concentration of minerals.

Some of the minerals could be magnesium and calcium.
The water molecule is one of the smallest and lightest around. The compound is simple, with common reactive elements, yet one of the most amazing substances known. Behind Hydrogen H2, Water H2O is the most common molecule.

When in a liquid form, the atoms in water move between other atoms. The atoms are continuously changing due to a process called protonation/deprotonation, staying less than one millisecond.

Spectrum

The graph below shows the size of the molecules when we look at water characteristics.

Molecule Spectrum

Micro-Filtration

Microfiltration refers to the process to removes any elements larger than 0.1 to 10 microns (micrometer- m). There are membranes that allow molecules either in a gas or gas form smaller than this to pass through the microscopic membrane. The microfiltration process is fundamentally the same as reverse osmosis. Microfiltration removes all bacteria, protozoa’s, Giardia, and Cryptosporidium.

Ultra Filtration

Ultrafiltration refers to the process to removes any elements larger than 0.005 to 0.10 microns (micrometer- m). Some membranes allow molecules either in a gas or gas form smaller than this to pass through the microscopic membrane. The ultrafiltration process is fundamentally the same as reverse osmosis. Ultrafiltration not only filters out what Micro Filtration but as well as viruses.

Nano Filtration

Nanofiltration refers to the process to removes any elements larger than 0.001 to 0.005 microns (micrometer- m). Some membranes allow molecules either in a gas or gas form smaller than this to pass through the microscopic membrane. The nanofiltration process is fundamentally the same as reverse osmosis.

Nanofiltration removes everything ultra filtration plus many nutrient, pesticides, and herbicides. It can remove salts from water, desalination. The process also removes solutes. The filtered water is extremely low of any nutrients below WHO standard guidelines. Nanofiltration only practically operates under high water pressure.

Electrochemical

The electrochemical water purification process refers to when water acts like a conductor when water is between two different elements with different and opposing electrical properties. The water allows charge to be transferred between the two elements, and a spontaneous electrical current is created. The technical term for the reaction is called an oxidation and reduction reaction, Redox. When an element loses electrons, it is called Oxidation, and when an element gains an electron, it is called reduction. When two elements are placed together with a transfer fluid, it is called an electrochemical cell.

As the electrical current passes through the water, the energy from the electrical charge destroys any live bacteria, oocysts, cysts, viruses, and anything else alive.

Many elements can be used to generate this voltaic cell (as opposed to the electrolytic cell where an external electrical supply is provided). These include carbon and zinc. 

Electrodialysis

Using Electrodialysis in a water purification situation destroys germs, bacteria, and cysts through is the process of passing electrical energy through the water. It is accomplished by electro-deionization. It is primarily used for saltwater desalination.

Aeration

Aeration, as the name suggests, introduces air into the water, in particular oxygen. The oxygen metabolizes microorganisms, reduce carbon dioxide as well as it removes methane and hydrogen sulfide. It improves the smell of the water, making it good to drink.

Aeration is a particularly good where water has a high iron and manganese content, removing the bitter taste of the water. The Aeration process needs to be used in conjunction with another process to remove harmful bacteria, cysts, and viruses.

Iodine Disinfection

Iodine can be used as a water disinfectant, often referred to as water purification. The chemical iodine has the ability to destroy bacteria, viruses, and cysts at appropriate levels of concentration and sufficient time to contact the microorganisms. At low dosages, iodine is ineffective against Giardia and Cryptosporidium (see WHO guidelines). Iodine requires sufficient contact time with bacteria, viruses, and cysts to destroy. Short contact with iodine may be in effect.

People with thyroid disorders or pregnant women should not use Iodine in water as it has a significant impact. In addition, no one should have more than 5 mg of iodine per week. That’s less than five drops of un-concentrated iodine.

Chlorine Disinfection

Chlorine disinfection refers to the process where chlorine is added into the water with the view of killing bacteria, viruses, protozoa cysts like Giardia and Cryptosporidium. Chlorine is an oxidization agent. The chlorine at drinkable levels destroys harmful bacteria but not Giardia and Cryptosporidium cysts.

Chlorine can react to naturally occurring chemicals creating harmful by-products such as chloramine (a dangerous carcinogen).

Often Chlorine is used in conjunction with other chemicals to avoid this carcinogen. Chlorine Dioxide can be used in conjunction to prevent this reaction from occurring.

Chlorine Dioxide Disinfection

Chlorine Dioxide, CIO2, has been used for over 100 years to disinfect water. By adding Chlorine Dioxide, a biocide, in water it becomes an oxidant. The by-product of this is chlorite. As an oxidant, it is able to destroy bacteria and cysts. It is often used to improve the taste of water, reduce iron and manganese, and hydrogen sulfide compounds.

There are some low levels of adverse impacts on human health, such as neurotoxicity and reproductive toxicity.

Ultra Violet light

When water is exposed to sunlight, it has powerful purification qualities. It is able to eliminate bacteria, microorganisms, cysts, germs, and viruses through a natural process. This process has been around for day one and has been proved effective. It is a natural disinfectant.

The Ultra Violet radiation (UV radiation) of sunlight is the practical disinfection component. The UV wavelength that is most effective in destroying germs is at 254 nanometres. The UV radiation can be simulated by non-natural means.

For UV water purification to be effective, the UV rays need to have the right combination of the length of time, energy levels, and contact to destroy dangerous organisms and germs.

Reverse Osmosis

The reverse osmosis process refers to passing a fluid through a membrane by applying pressure (hydraulic pressure) to remove unwanted material. Reverse osmosis is usually used with clear water. When used in conjunction with water and the appropriate size membrane, it is able to effectively remove bacteria, viruses, cysts, giardia, and cryptosporidium.

It is one of the most used processes to filter/purify water and is used in municipal water plants, commercial buildings, homes as well by the Sure Aquaproduct group.

Forward Osmosis

The forward osmosis process refers to passing a fluid through a membrane without applying pressure (except atmospheric pressure, natural forces) to remove unwanted material. When used in conjunction with water and the appropriate size membrane, it is able to effectively remove bacteria, viruses, cysts, toxins, giardia, and cryptosporidium.

Forward osmosis is used in conjunction with some solute. The solute material is nominally a sugar-based. Forward osmosis is exceptionally effective to be used to purify and range of liquids including saltwater, urine and brackish water.

The drawbacks of this forward osmosis are

  1. It is very slow to filter the water, and
  2. The filtered water may not be suitable for a person with diabetes due to the added sugars

Activated Carbon- Granulated

Activated Carbon is a natural material. It is derived from coal, charcoal, coconut shell, lignite. It is processed into form granules to make it exceptionally porous, creating an enormous surface area that allows either adsorption or chemical reactions. As little as 1 gram of granular activated carbon equates to a surface area of almost 2000 sq meters.

Depending on the sources of the activated carbon made (from where it has been derived), each will have slightly different performance characteristics. For example, bituminous carbon has a higher chlorine absorption, whereas coconut carbon improves the taste of water.

Activated Carbon can also be treated with a specific chemical to use the absorption qualities to destroy bacteria.

With the exceptional porous qualities of the granulated carbon, when water is strained through the granules, any chemicals in the water will “stick” to the carbon surface, making a small film. (Carbon absorption process). This is effective in removing chlorine, benzene, radon, toxaphene, and other natural and man-made compounds.
Water needs to be passed through the slow to allow the surface area to work effectively; otherwise, the efficiency may be as low as 0%.

Other issues with activated carbon are;

  • Activated Carbon (no form) removes bacteria.
  • Channeling may occur; that is, water makes a direct path through the granules.

Silver impregnated Granula Activated Carbon

Silver-based Granular Activated Carbon has a minute percentage of silver spray, typically 1-2% of the surface area. The silver is meant to stop bacterial growth.

As water is leached through the granules, the silver becomes prematurely removed into the water supplied.

Distillation

Distillation is the process of heating water until its vapor point and then recondensing the steam into a container. The collected water has all the impurities removed. This water is called distilled water.

Distilled water has virtually no minerals. Humans require some minerals in water for dietary purposes to maintain proper health.

Distillation Apparatus

Ozonation

The ozonation process refers to when ozone, O3, is used to purifying water. It is one of the best ways to purify water. Ozone, O3, is an effective oxidizing agent, as it has a very high oxidation potential and has a ½ life of less than 30 minutes, making it very effective in making water pure, odorless, colorless, and safe. Any organisms, microorganisms, bacteria, oocysts, germs, viral DNA (such as smallpox, herpes, and hepatitis) and viral RNA (e.g., measles, mumps, West Nile, rubella, and influenza), heavy metals, and toxins cannot survive when in contact with ozone.

Ozone is a pollutant at ground level being created by hydrocarbons and nitrogens getting into contact with sunlight.

The ozonation process is typically used in large plants as it requires equipment and energy. It is typically used with a filtration system.

KDF Resin

KDF (Kinetic Degradation Fluxion) Resign is a brand name of a product that has been designed to filter water. It uses a copper and zinc alloys that, when water passes through, creates electrochemical oxidation, electrolysis, destroying bacteria. The process is known as “redox.” In this process, electrons are transmitted between molecules, and new elements are created. The old elements of harmful elements are eliminated. For example, chlorine is transformed into chloride. The heavy metals in the water are attracted to the KFD surface due to the electrical potential difference.

The KFD is usually used in conjunction with activated carbon (granular) to remove specific chemicals.

Ceramic Filters

Ceramic filters are a man-made product that is manufactured with a specific designed pores size to allow water filtration, typically 0.5 microns. Ceramic filters can be used in either a forward or reverse osmosis process.

Often silver is used in the ceramic to stop any fungicidal or algaecides or bactericidal growth. As silver is toxic to humans, silver levels must be kept to a minimum. All water filtration systems in the US must be registered with the EPA.

Solid Carbon Block

Solid Carbon Block absorbs viruses nor bacteria and destroying them with “food grade” pesticides or iodine. The pesticide or iodine s is saturated in the Carbon Block. The bacteria and viruses are attracted to the carbon block by “electro-attractive forces.”

Solid carbon blocks do not work well to destroy Protozoa’s cysts, such as Giardia and Cryptosporidium.

Water Boiling

Boiling is the most effective in removing bacteria, viruses, and the like out of water provided it is boiled at 100C for at least several minutes.

Comparative Rating of Filtration, purification, and Technologies

The below table provides some guidelines on how effective the technologies are for a portable device when traveling, camping, or required in a disaster or emergency. This assessment takes into the following parameters;

  • Chemical
  • Speed of access to water
  • Portability
  • Ease of use
  • Bacteria removal
  • Cysts removal
  • Virus remove

Filtration Purification Method

Description

Performance (1-5)
5 being the best
Granulated Activated Carbon

Water passes over the carbon with a slightly electro-positive charge

Distillation
The heating of water to its vapor point
Ozonation
Super oxygenation of water
Reverse Osmosis
A separation process using a semi-permeable membrane
KDF Resin
A filter containing a cartridge filled with zinc and copper to create electrolysis
Ultraviolet
The use of the light process to filter the water
Solid Carbon Block Filters
Combined Carbon Absorption
Membrane Filters
Hollow fiber filters – Portable and commercial water filtration devices
Membrane Filters -Ultra
Hollow fiber filters – Portable and commercial water filtration devices
Chemical Disinfection
The use of chlorine or iodine tablets
Boiled water
Boiling of water in a pot to 100 deg C (except high altitudes)

Final Say

In an economic and environmental climate that forces us to reconsider bottled water, Australian’s  are fortunate enough to have the alternative of purchasing reusable bottles.

Australian water is said to be world standard drinking water, but you are encouraged to adopt the use of water filters.

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Ban bottled water?

Ban bottled water?

by | Sep 3, 2020 | Environment

Ban bottled water? -Hydration with the Environment in Mind

As the movement towards a complete ban on bottled water becomes an increasing possibility in society today, we can no longer ignore or avoid the effects of bottled water on our environment. As the facts of the environmental consequences of bottled water are becoming more and accessible and apparent, certain communities are beginning to respond, such as the small town of Bundanoon in southern NSW, Australia which, on the 26th of September, became the first town in the world to ban bottled water.

Did you know  their is about 5.5 trillion macro and microplastic pieces in out our seas.  About 8 million plastic bottles get washed into our oceans each DAY!!

Plastic bottled water pollution
According to www.gotap.com.au, a website run by the not-for-profit organisation, Do Something, which promotes positive social and environmental change, these are the facts on the bottled water industry and why they believe things have to change:

  • 64% of all bottles consumed go to land fill with only 36% being recycled
  • The production of one liter of bottle water emits 100 times more greenhouse gases than a liter of tap water

Environmental Impacts

There is no arguing that bottled water has detrimental effects on the environment right from when it is produced right through to its consumption. According to Cleanup Australia it all begins at the source. Spring water used in bottled water is sourced from underground aquifers upstream from where the water surfaces. This interrupts the natural aquifer flow, effecting eco systems relying on the water for nourishment and growth.

In production, most bottles are produced from Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET), a plastic resin which is derived from crude oil. It takes up to 250ml of crude oil to produce one liter of bottled water and in this process three litres of water is used.

The water is then transported all around the world, burning fossil fuels that otherwise would not be impacting on the environment if bottled water was banned.

According to the 2009 ‘Rubbish Report’ by Clean Up Australia, plastic bottles are amongst the ten most common rubbish items picked up on Clean Up Australia day. Bottles that are not recycled and go to land fill can take up to 1000 years per plastic bottle to decompose.

So what are the main reasons people insisting on turning to bottled water? Some would argue that bottled water not only tastes better than tap water, but that it is also a healthier alternative and is more convenient.

However, there is no evidence to suggest that bottled water is a healthier alternative. Unless your bottle of water is spring water from natural sources, then it is simply sourced from municipal water supplies, i.e. tap water, but has received extra treatment. Fortunately, as environmental awareness begins to rise, more people are beginning to wake up to the facts.

Increasing Trend of Social Responsibility

As mentioned in the introduction, Bundanoon, was the first town in the world to ban bottled water. The town replaced bottles of water in their stores with refillable and reusable bottles that can be replenished from water fountains installed inside shops and in the streets.

Following in the footsteps of Bundanoon, in January of 2011, the University of Canberra, Australia, declared that they were set to ban bottled water across their campuses. They turned to the solution of vending machines called WaterVend, providing water refills for a dollar rather than students and university staff having to pay $3.00 for a bottle of water.

In the year 2013, Concord, a town in the USA state of Massachusetts passed a law making single serving bottle water illegal. According to Ninemsn, “…the ban is intended to encourage use of tap water and curb the worldwide problem of plastic pollution.”

Children cleaning bottled water bottles from beach

Final Say

In an economic and environmental climate that forces us to reconsider bottled water, Australian’s  are fortunate enough to have the alternative of purchasing reusable bottles.

Australian water is said to be world standard drinking water, but you are encouraged to adopt the use of water filters.

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Water and our Planet

Water and our Planet

by | Sep 2, 2020 | Environment, Water

Water and our Planet

Water covers 71% of the Earth’s surface. It exists in three different states being liquid, gas and solid. The natural water cycle drives life on this planet. Water evaporates from oceans, rivers and other water systems, which are fed from melting snow and rainfall. The water vapor then precipitates in the Earth’s atmosphere, and falls back down in the form of rain, snow and hail to nourish the earth and start the cycle all over again.

Water comes in many shapes and sizes. In some cases it is fierce and dangerous, but in some cases it is magical and jaw dropping. We cover at five of the world’s biggest, natural water features.

Did you know water is the most comon substance on this planet, spend 98% of its life in oceans, 1.8% in rivers and 0.2% in the atmosphere?

Who much water covers pour planet

The Biggest Ocean

Covering 33% of the Earth’s surface and 46% of the Earth’s total water surface, the Pacific Ocean is our largest ocean by a long shot. The deepest area of the ocean, called the Mariana Trench in the western North Pacific, is the deepest point in the world reaching 10,911 meters (35,797 feet). The Pacific Ocean holds a volume of 622 million cubic kilometers (386 million cubic miles).

The equator divides this volume of water into the North and South Pacific. The ocean reaches from the South Pole to the North Pole, and extends from west coast of America all the way to the shores of Japan. In 1951 Portuguese explorer, Ferdinand Magellan gave the ocean the name we know it as today, ‘Mare Pacificum’. This means ‘Peaceful Sea’ in Portuguese.

The Biggest River

It is not necessarily the longest river in the world, just short of the Nile River in Africa by 595 kilometers (369 miles), but the Amazon River certainly is the biggest river in the world.

With 120,000 cubic meters (74,000 cubic miles) flowing out of its river mouth as each second goes by, the Amazon is home to the world’s largest drainage basin which is 240 kilometers (150 miles) wide, covering a total surface area of at 7,050,000 square kilometers (2,720,000 square miles).

During the rainy season in South America, between early December and late March, the Amazon can widen up to 48 kilometers (30 miles).

The first bridge was built over the amazon in 2010 called the Manaus Iranduba Bridge, which covers a total length of 3500 meters (11,482.94 feet). Located in South America, the Amazon River cuts through the countries of Brazil, Colombia and Peru.

The Biggest Waterfall

At 979 meters (3,211.94 feet) tall, Angel Falls is the world’s largest waterfall. Flowing from the Auyantepui River into the Devil’s Canyon, the water free falls for 807 meters (2,648 feet).

Initially named Kerepakupai-merú by the local Indians, the falls were given their modern day name by adventurer Jimmy Angel when he discovered them in 1935 while looking for gold.

 

Water and the Biggest River Amazon

The Biggest Lake

Despite it’s name, the title of biggest lake belongs to the Caspian Sea. Perched on the borders of Russia, Azerbaijan, Iran, Turkmenistan and Kazakhstan, the lake covers a total surface area of 371,000 square kilometers (143,000 square miles). All the water in the lake equals a total volume of 78,200 cubic kilometers (18,800 cubic square miles).

The Caspian Sea has no outflows at all, receiving all its inflows from the Volga, Ural, Kura, and Terek rivers, and only loosing water to evaporation. At its widest point, this inland body of water reaches 435 kilometers (270 miles) and stretches 1,030 kilometers (640 miles) in length.

Enormous Lake
The sea had previously been perceived as an ocean by ancient inhabitants due to its huge expanse and because it contains one-third the salinity (saltiness) of normal ocean water. In fact, 250 million years ago when the earth was still made up of two continents, Gondwana and Laurasia, the Caspian Sea was said to be part of what was called the Tethys Sea. An interesting fact is the Caspian Sea became land locked 5.5 million years ago due to shift in the continental plates, closing it off from the Tethys Sea. This same shift attributed to the creation of the Indian and Atlantic Oceans.

Last, but not least, The Biggest Glacier

To begin with, a glacier is a slow moving mass or river of ice formed by the accumulation and compaction of snow.

The Lambert Glacier is the biggest glacier in the world. Located in the Antarctica, this glacier measures in at 100 kilometers (60 miles) in width and 400 kilometers (250 miles) in length.

The most amazing aspect of this glacier is not in plain sight. The Lambert Glacier extends a total length of about 2500 meters (8202.01 feet) down.

Antartic Glacier

Final Say

For more articles on our world and water, head to the official SureAqua website.

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