Water treatment is essential for several reasons that impact public health, the environment and sustainable development. The main reasons for its importance are highlighted below:
1. Protection of human health
Removal of contaminants: Water treatment removes bacteria, viruses, parasites and toxic chemicals that can cause serious diseases such as cholera, dysentery and other gastrointestinal infections. Access to safe drinking water: Ensures safe drinking water, significantly reducing mortality associated with waterborne diseases.
2. Environmental conservation
Prevents pollution of water bodies: Treats wastewater before returning it to rivers, lakes and oceans, reducing environmental impact and protecting aquatic ecosystems. Protects biodiversity: Prevents the accumulation of pollutants that can harm or extinguish marine and terrestrial species.
3. Sustainability of water resources
Water reuse: Treatment allows water to be recycled for domestic, agricultural and industrial uses, contributing to more efficient management of this limited resource. Waste reduction: It reduces dependence on freshwater sources, especially in areas with water scarcity.
4. Regulatory compliance and economic development
Legal regulations: Ensures that industries comply with environmental regulations, avoiding economic sanctions. Sustainable industrial development: Provides treated water for industrial processes, improving the quality and efficiency of production.
5. Improving the quality of life
Safe Infrastructure: Promotes the development of reliable water distribution systems in urban and rural communities. Education and Awareness: Promotes knowledge about responsible use and the importance of treated water in daily life.
Water treatment not only ensures the health of people and the planet, but is also an essential pillar for achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) established by the UN, particularly those related to access to clean water (SDG 6), health (SDG 3) and climate action (SDG 13).
