Public health and technological innovations for public supply

Abstract

Water scarcity in Brazilian metropolises has been aggravated by the characteristics of their very development. The disordered urban expansion near fountainheads and the lack of infrastructure for new housing units has contributed to the degradation of water sources used for public supply. This causes the population to be more susceptible to waterborne diseases. Regardless of the various types of contaminants present in the water, the improvement of traditional technologies used in the water treatment process and wastewater treatment is sought after to promote safe water supply to the population, without considering technological innovations on the sector. This study aims to demonstrate the ineffectiveness of treatment processes currently used in Brazil and the risks to public health. We also analyze the direct potable reuse and how this practice can be a solution to promote water quality and meet the demand of large urban centers in situations of water scarcity.