Water Purification Plants: Environmental and Cost Considerations

All water treatment plants disinfect the finished water, but there is more than one method of disinfection.

Groundwater is the easiest and least expensive water to treat, but once aquifers have been depleted, it can take thousands of years for them to replenish themselves.

Surface water sources must be continuously monitored for unusual types and levels of harmful contaminants.

Water treatment plants must constantly be on guard against vandalism and terrorism. They must provide special training for workers and emergency personnel in the many dangerous chemicals used in water purification. They must dispose of wastes responsibly and prevent them from contaminating treatment components or water sources.

All water treatment plants disinfect the finished water, but there is more than one method of disinfection. Some disinfection methods are controversial. Each facility must evaluate the costs and benefits of different methods of disinfection.

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