Outline the main risks associated with contaminated drinking waters in the UK and comment on how significant these risks are.

Question 1

Microbial Contamination

Answer 1

Bacteria, viruses and parasites can pose a significant risk to consumers if they contaminate drinking water sources. These microorganisms can cause waterborne diseases such as Hep A, diarrhea and typhoid.

Question 2

Chemical Contamination

Answer 2

This contamination can occur from industrial plants discharge, naturally occurring substances from process of disinfection such as chloroform. Examples of chemical contaminants are heavy metals, pesticides, industrial chemicals. High level exposure can lead to neurological health effects and cancers.

Question 3

Agricultural Pollution

Answer 3

Causes can occur from agricultural lands which introduce pesticides, fertilisers and livestock waste, which pose health risks to consumers. These can also cause an increase in harmful algal blooms in water bodies which release toxins into the water and affect quality of water.

Question 4

Cryptosporidium and other pathogens

Answer 4

Cryptosporidium is a highly resistant pathogen to disinfection such as chlorination, it can cause major health effects especially to those with compromised immune systems. An other concern is norovirus which can cause waterborne diseases as it can contaminate drinking water supply also.

Question 5

Emerging Contaminants

Answer 5

Pharmaceuticals and microplastics are becoming increasingly recognised due to its negative effects of drinking water supply quality.