Water

Sources for potable water: Spring water is groundwater that rises to the ground surface. Springs are often used as sources for bottled waters.[14] Tap water, delivered by domestic water systems indeveloped nations, refers to water piped to homes and delivered to a tap or spigot. For these water sources to be consumed safely they must receive adequate treatment and meet drinking water regulation.The most efficient way to transport and deliver potable water is through pipes.

Pollution of water: Water pollution affects plants and organisms living in these bodies of water. In almost allcases the effect is damaging not only to individual species and populations, but also to the natural biological communities. The specific contaminants leading to pollution in water include a widespectrum of chemicals, pathogens, and physical or sensory changes such as elevated temperature and discoloration. While many of the chemicals and substances that are regulated may be naturally occurring(calcium, sodium, iron, manganese, etc.) the concentration is often the key in determining what is a natural component of water, and what is a contaminant. High concentrations of naturally occurringsubstances can have negative impacts on aquatic flora and fauna.

Availability in different countries for potable water: One of the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) set by the UN includesenvironmental sustainability. In 2004, only 42% of people in rural areas had access to clean water. One organisation working to improve the availability of safe drinking water in some the world's poorestcountries is WaterAid International. Operating in 26 countries, WaterAid is working to make lasting improvements to peoples' quality of life by providing long-term sustainable access to clean water incountries such as Nepal, Tanzania, Ghana and India. It also works to educate people about sanitation and hygiene.

Quality of potable water: In the setting of standards, agencies make political and...