Document Author: R Clayton

Desalination for Water Supply (FR/R0013)

The scarcity of existing fresh water supplies is becoming a problem in many parts of the world. In some areas a process called ‘desalination’ is used to reduce the salt content of brackish and sea waters to turn them into a drinkable supply. This review explains what makes a water drinkable, the various processes used…
Household Chemicals and the Water Environment (FR/R0010)

We all use chemicals in the home and in gardens. Some chemicals, such as cleaning agents and detergents, may be discharged directly and legitimately to the drains and hence enter water bodies. Others, such as paints, solvents or surplus pesticides, may be disposed of with little consideration for the environment, and may pose a risk,…
Giardia in Water Supplies (FR/R0006)

Like Cryptosporidium, Giardia is a parasite, which can cause an unpleasant illness referred to as giardiasis. The symptoms are acute diarrhea, abdominal cramps, bloating and excessive flatulence. Outbreaks have been caused by contact with farm animals, contaminated drinking water, contaminated food and contaminated swimming pools and other recreational waters (rivers and lakes). The review summarises…
Cryptosporidium in Water Supplies (FR/R0005)

Cryptosporidium is a waterborne parasite, which can cause an unpleasant illness called cryptosporidiosis. The symptoms are diarrhea, mild abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, mild fever and fatigue. Outbreaks of cryptosporidiosis have been caused by poor hygiene, contact with farm animals, contaminated drinking water and contaminated swimming pools. The review summaries the incidence and principal causes of…
Endocrine Disrupters in the Environment (FR/R0003)

Endocrine disrupters are chemicals that may interfere with hormone systems. Some effects have been seen in certain marine and freshwater organisms, such as fish downstream of sewage treatment works. The review explains what endocrine disruption is and which chemicals have been questioned. There is a discussion of the risks for the environment and for human…