Water Wheel March/April 2024: Water Quality

Abstract

Cover feature New research takes a step towards real-time testing for chemicals of concern Though mostly present in low concentrations, the potential negative effects of these potentially hazardous contaminants on both people and the environment are a growing concern. It is now generally accepted that even at low levels, cytotoxic, genotoxic, and carcinogenic substances could damage cells and organisms, with a range of potential impacts including various forms of cancers. However, micropollutants – generally considered to be chemicals that can pose a risk to lifeforms at microgram per litre or lower concentrations – are not yet commonly monitored in the environment internationally, and existing water quality regulations, including in South Africa, do not currently cover them. The problem, says Chris Swartz of Chris Swartz Water Utilization Engineers, is that these chemicals mostly occur at very low concentrations, and to test for each of them individually is not only difficult but rarely practically possible. And, he adds, the tests are very expensive.

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