Water Flashcards
‘Grey’ Water
Wastewater from people’s homes that can be recycled and put to good use. Uses include water for laundry and toilet flushing. Treated grey water can also be used to irrigate both food and non-food producing plants. The nutrients in the grey water (such as phosphorus and nitrogen) provide an excellent food source for these plants.
Groundwater Management
Regulation and control of water levels, pollution, ownership and use of groundwater.
Over-abstraction
When water is being used more quickly than it is being replaced.
Sustainable Development
Development that meets the needs of the present without limiting the ability of future generations to meet their own needs.
Sustainable Water Supply
Meeting the present-day need for safe, reliable, and affordable water, which minimises adverse effects on the environment, whilst enabling future generations to meet their requirements.
Waterborne Diseases
Diseases caused by microorganisms that are transmitted in contaminated water. Infection commonly results during bathing, washing, drinking, in the preparation of food, or the consumption of infected food. eg cholera, typhoid, botulism.
Water Conflict
Disputes between different regions or countries about the distribution and use of freshwater. Conflicts arise from the gap between growing demands and diminishing supplies.
Water Conservation
The preservation, control and development of water resources, both surface and groundwater, and prevention of pollution.
Water Deficit
This exists where water demand is greater than supply.
Water Insecurity
When water availability is not enough to ensure the population of an area enjoys good health, livelihood and earnings. This can be caused by water insufficiency or poor water quality.
Water Quality
Quality can be measured in terms of the chemical, physical and biological content of water. The most common standards used to assess water quality relate to health of ecosystems, safety of human contact and drinking water.
Water Security
The reliable availability of an acceptable quantity and quality of water for health, livelihoods and production.
Water Stress
Water stress occurs when the demand for water exceeds the available amount during a certain period or when poor quality restricts its use.
Water Surplus
This exists where water supply is greater than demand.
Water Transfer
Water transfer schemes attempt to make up for water shortages by constructing elaborate systems of canals, pipes and dredging over long distances to transport water from one river basin to another.
