Water is constantly in the news. Unfortunately, lately the news about water seems to be all negative-contaminants, shortages, legal battles over water rights, etc. It sounds as if we are facing a huge problem, and more of the same for the near future.
The positive news, however, is that where there are problems, there are opportunities for those willing to learn more about the situation.
The public's understanding about water conditions generally comes in the form of "sound-bite"
Keeping Up
Then there's higher scrutiny from government regulations. Municipalities are under increasing regulatory pressure. Regulatory analysts note that water regulations are getting more complex and that "future regulations promise even more complexity"New Paradigm
Let's take a look at why a new, "decentralized"Opportunities
Now, consider the regulatory pressures discussed above and the myriad of contaminants appearing in water. This thinking can be applied to a larger spectrum of contaminants or a combination of contaminants. Radium, nitrates, uranium, lead and many more may also be candidates for decentralized removal, to the benefit of the municipality and the public.Undoubtedly, more exotic contaminants and lower permissible levels of contaminants will require more innovative approaches for removal. Innovation will require some study on the part of those who want to be innovators and take advantage of new technologies, applications and opportunities.
When all is said and done, one other factor will drive the change described above-the consumer. Data shows that if the consumer knows a contaminant is there, he or she wants it out. As consumers of water ourselves, we can easily to relate to this sentiment. Plumbing professionals need to prepare for the future opportunities in water treatment.
In the coming months, this column intends to help readers better understand some of the point-of-use and point-of-entry technologies for water treatment, as well as other water issues and opportunities.
