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 greywater can also be used
to irrigate both food and non-food producing plants. The nutrients in the
greywater(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 that 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.
