Water Pollution: The Usual Culprits

Abstract

This chapter will deal more specifically with some of the water pollutants of major concern either for the environment (wildlife) or because of health and safety considerations. Heavy metals, persistent organic pollutants (POPs), pesticides and other chemical pollutants will be discussed as well as some of the major biological pollutants. Recent examples of drinking water contamination will be provided. The role of acid precipitation in promoting toxicity is discussed.

Keywords: Water pollution (biological), cholera, other gastroenteric bacteria, parasites, outbreak by E. coli O₁₅₇.H₇, haemolytic-uremic syndrome, water chlorination, ultraviolet water treatment, chemical water pollution, mercury, methyl mercury, PCBs, DDT, nitrates/nitrites, acid precipitation (and copper, and diflubenzuron, and calcium loss), daphnids, pharmaceuticals, endocrine disrupters, pesticides, radioactive contamination.