Perception Of Water Quality Research Articles

Development of low cost household drinking water treatment system for the earthquake affected communities in Northern Pakistan

The devastating earthquake of 2005 severely damaged over 4000 water and sanitation schemes in northern Pakistan. The present study aimed at testing a low cost household sand filter (HSF) in treating low quality drinking water in disaster-hit areas of northern Pakistan. Two villages were randomly selected for practical demonstration of a low cost drinking water treatment system in earthquake affected areas. The on-site performance of HSF was monitored during the operational period. The data was collected on people perceptions of water quality and handling of the household sand filter (HSF) through in depth focus group discussions, questionnaire and interviews. The results showed that pre-treatment values of drinking water for Escherichia coli, total coliforms and turbidity were 101 cfu/100 ml, 73 cfu/100 ml and turbidity 44 and 16 NTU, respectively. After HSF operation for 10 days, 97% reduction in E. coli, total coliforms and turbidity was evidenced. More than 67% of the respondents perceived turbidity as a prime water quality issue responsible for ill health consequences. It was concluded that the designed HSF was efficient in improving drinking water quality for illiterate communities and its success and dissemination to poor communities were prone to locally available construction materials.

Retronasal perception and flavour thresholds of iron and copper in drinking water

Drinking water flavour has a strong role in water quality perception, service satisfaction, willingness to pay and selection of water sources. Metallic flavours are often caused by the dissolved iron and copper, commonly found in groundwater or introduced to tap water by corroding infrastructure. Taste thresholds of iron and copper have been investigated by several studies; however, reported results and test methods vary considerably. This study determined the taste thresholds of ferrous and cuprous ions in room temperature reagent water by using the one-of-five test with multi-nation panellists in the United States. For ferrous and cuprous ions, individual thresholds ranged from 0.003 to >5 mg l−1 and 0.035 to >5 mg l−1, respectively. Population thresholds were determined by logistic regression and geometric mean methods as 0.031 and 0.05 mg l−1 for ferrous ion, and 0.61 mg l−1 for cuprous ion by both methods. The components of metallic sensation were investigated by use of nose-clips while panellists ingested iron and copper solutions. Results showed that metallic sensation has a significant odour component and should be treated as a flavour instead of a taste. Ferrous, cuprous and cupric ions also produced weak bitter and salty tastes as well as astringent mouthfeel. In comparison, ferric ion produced no sensation.

Bottled Water: United States Consumers and Their Perceptions of Water Quality

Consumption of bottled water is increasing worldwide. Prior research shows many consumers believe bottled water is convenient and has better taste than tap water, despite reports of a number of water quality incidents with bottled water. The authors explore the demographic and social factors associated with bottled water users in the U.S. and the relationship between bottled water use and perceptions of the quality of local water supply. They find that U.S. consumers are more likely to report bottled water as their primary drinking water source when they perceive that drinking water is not safe. Furthermore, those who give lower ratings to the quality of their ground water are more likely to regularly purchase bottle water for drinking and use bottle water as their primary drinking water source.

Note from the Editor Regarding this Special Issue

Studies of the Subak: New Directions, New Challenges a collection of papers edited by Nitish Jha and John W. Schoenfelder is a welcome addition to Human Ecology’s list of special issues focusing on important topics in research and theory. Often collections such as this have an impact greater than merely the sum of the individual articles. Nitish Jha, John W. Schoenfelder and their colleagues have made outstanding contributions here across a number of disciplines all sharing a focus on the water management systems of one island, Bali, the study of which has energized and informed research on water management and distribution on several continents. Since the practical constraints attending a bimonthly peer reviewed journal require that we make full use of our page budget, we have included two additional articles not selected by our guest editors. Both seem singularly appropriate here as they deal with water, its scarcity, and the myriad issues attending its use and distribution. Zongze Hu uses an unusual but effective perspective to document and understand villagers’ efforts to secure a reliable supply of drinking water in a rural community in North China. He views this through the changing fortunes of the Ninth Dragon, a water god whose rise, fall, and ultimate reinstatement as an important deity reflects village politics and disputes over water, as well the efforts of the central government to secure local control and authority. In this fine grained account, the ponds, the canals, the ditches, the wells, the water towers, the water pipes, and the water switching station are all indicators of the political power and mobilizing abilities of different generations of village leaders. The resurgence of the Dragon’s worship since the early 1980s partly resulted from the state’s more relaxed ideological control, but it has facilitated the emergence of a new group of religious leaders who compete with secular leaders for influence and authority. Ayron Strauch and Astler Almedon, in a paper using both qualitative and quantative data, examine traditional resource management among the Sonjo in rural Northern Tanzania, with particular reference to catchment forest protection and water quality, which is often overlooked in studies of water management. They document the ecologically relevant TRM and describe the differences between traditionally managed water sources and formal government managed resources. Their insightful examination of traditional methods of water conservation and users perceptions of water quality provides insight into how communities in resource-stressed regions thrive despite seasonal droughts and flooding.

Traditional Water Resource Management and Water Quality in Rural Tanzania

Traditional resource management (TRM) is largely based on local ecological knowledge (LEK). In regions where formal institutional control of natural resources is limited due to a lack of coordination or stakeholder involvement, communities rely on TRM to manage common-pool resources. This paper examines TRM among the Sonjo in rural Northern Tanzania, with particular reference to catchment forest protection and water quality. We first document the ecological knowledge of traditional resource managers, and then describe the differences between traditionally managed water sources and formal, government managed resources. Using both qualitative and quantitative methods to examine water use, perceptions of water quality, and bacterial water quality, significant differences were detected among river basins within seasons and between seasons. Our findings indicate that the Sonjo, well known for their traditional forest conservation practices and irrigation management, may also benefit from TRM through improved water quality. The examination of traditional methods of water conservation provides insight into how communities in resource-stressed regions thrive despite seasonal droughts and flooding.

Water reuse for irrigation in Jordan: Perceptions of water quality among farmers

▶ We compare farmers’ perceptions to reclaimed water at a number of locations in Jordan. ▶ Direct users (irrigating near wastewater treatment plants) tend to hold neutral or positive perceptions. ▶ Indirect users (irrigating at distance from treatment plants) tend to hold negative perceptions. ▶ Perceptions are not necessarily connected to actual water quality. ▶ Perceptions seem to be related to farmers’ capacity to control water quality and manage agricultural challenges presented by reclaimed water. The reuse of treated wastewater (reclaimed water) for irrigation is a valuable strategy to maximise available water resources, but the often marginal quality of the water can present agricultural challenges. Semi-structured interviews were held with Jordanian farmers to explore how they perceive the quality of reclaimed water. Of the 11 farmers interviewed who irrigate with reclaimed water directly near treatment plants, 10 described reclaimed water either positively or neutrally. In contrast, 27 of the 39 farmers who use reclaimed water indirectly, after it is blended with fresh water, viewed the resource negatively, although 23 of the indirect reuse farmers also recognised the nutrient benefits. Farmer perception of reclaimed water may be a function of its quality, but consideration should also be given to farmers’ capacity to manage the agricultural challenges associated with reclaimed water (salinity, irrigation system damage, marketing of produce), their actual and perceived capacity to control where and when reclaimed water is used, and their capacity to influence the quality of the water delivered to the farm.

Land Use and Water Quality Along a Mekong Tributary in Northern Lao P.D.R.

Improving access to clean water has the potential to make a major contribution toward poverty reduction in rural communities of Lao P.D.R. This study focuses on stream water quality along a Mekong basin tributary, the Houay Xon that flows within a mountainous, mosaic land-use catchment of northern Lao P.D.R. To compare direct water quality measurements to the perception of water quality within the riparian population, our survey included interviews of villagers. Water quality was found to vary greatly depending on the location along the stream. Overall, it reflected the balance between the stream self-cleaning potential and human pressure on the riparian zone: (i) high bacteria and suspended load levels occurred where livestock are left to free-range within the riparian zone; (ii) very low oxygen content and high bacteriological contamination prevailed downstream from villages; (iii) high concentrations of bacteria were consistently observed along urbanized banks; (iv) low oxygen content were associated with the discharge of organic-rich wastewater from a small industrial plant; (v) very high suspended load and bacteria levels occurred during flood events due to soil erosion from steep cultivated hill slopes. Besides these human induced pollutions we also noted spontaneous enrichments in metals in wetland areas fed by dysoxic groundwater. These biophysical measurements were in agreement with the opinions expressed by the majority of the interviewees who reported poor and decreasing water quality in the Houay Xon catchment. Based on our survey, we propose recommendations to improve or maintain stream water quality in the uplands of northern Lao P.D.R.

Enhancing Community-scale Social Resilience: what is the connection between healthy communities and healthy waterways?

Qualitative research undertaken in a regional centre of northern Queensland revealed how community members with an interest in water quality see themselves and others being pro-active in maintaining healthy waterways. Interview analysis revealed that respondents saw social resilience to changing water quality as contingent upon personal perceptions of water quality; the ability of a whole community to respond to changes in water quality; and individual behaviour change. Many participants explained that, in general, individuals would not take responsibility for maintaining healthy waterways unless there were personal consequences for not acting. We relate these data to current literature linking individual attitudes to community pro-environmental behaviour. We conclude that certain conditions usually prevail before a whole community will take up environmentally responsible behaviour. These conditions include a latent level of social capital, collective social learning, agency coordination, sufficient resources, and personal significance.

Community perceptions of water quality and current institutional arrangements in the Great Barrier Reef Region of Australia

This paper traces the perceived linkages between sources of water quality deterioration, impact on human wellbeing and the institutions responsible for dealing with the sources and impacts. The DPSIR (Driving forces-Pressure-State-Impact-Response) framework is used as a guide for data collection and to structure responses and the emerging themes. The web of linkages, as perceived by residents, is then compared with current institutional arrangements across different relevant sectors. Taking a case study and exploratory research approach, eleven residents of Whitsunday shire, Queensland, Australia were interviewed about their perceptions of water related issues. This was followed by an analysis of current water management institutions for the region. Significant gaps were found between community concerns regarding water quality and actual institutional arrangements responsible for managing water use and quality. Residents perceived their local government body (Shire Council) as accountable for responding to water-related pressures and impacts in their Shire, whereas the responsibility falls primarily on government agencies and organisations at a regional, state and national level. Improved communication between the council and residents is needed to close these gaps in understanding. Moreover, incorporation of local perceptions and values regarding water pressure, impacts and preferred use into the development of institutional arrangements for water management is suggested.

Factors influencing public perception of drinking water quality

A better understanding of the processes that influence public perception can contribute to improvements in water management, consumer services, acceptability of water reuse and risk communication, among other areas. This paper discusses some of the main variables involved in public perception of drinking water quality. Research on this topic suggests that perceptions of water quality result from a complex interaction of diverse factors. In many circumstances, the estimation of water quality is mostly influenced by organoleptic properties, in particular flavour. In addition, a variety of other factors also have an influence on perceptions of quality. These include risk perception, attitudes towards water chemicals, contextual cues provided by the supply system, familiarity with specific water properties, trust in suppliers, past problems attributed to water quality and information provided by the mass media and interpersonal sources. The role and relevance of these factors are discussed in detail.

Effect of observation method on the perception of community structure and water quality in a brackish water ecosystem

AbstractThe EU Water Framework Directive is a Community legislative instrument in the field of environmental protection that establishes a common framework for keeping water quality at a favourable level. To implement the directive, classification systems need to be established that allow detection of human impacts at early stages and, thus, more effective management of coastal communities. Due to the spatial variability of communities, however, the results of any assessment are highly dependent on the selection of data. In this study we identified local spatial scales in which variability of macrophyte communities was maximised, quantified links between observed patterns of sediment types and communities and estimated how selection criteria impacted the outcome of the assessment of indicator class value in four different communities of the Northern Baltic Sea. The main findings of the study were that: (i) there were no clear local spatial scales in which the variability of benthic communities was maximised; (ii) hard‐bottom communities were better predicted by the spatial arrangement of sediment characteristics than soft‐bottom communities; (iii) the selection of method had no effect on the estimates of macrophyte cover and indicator class; but (iv) method impacted independently of habitat type on error estimates of macrophyte cover and indicator class. To conclude, in such homogeneous and low diversity macrophyte communities it is preferable to use methods that result in lower error estimates of algal coverage and, thus, result in lower uncertainties of estimates in the water quality class.

Perceptions of drinking water quality and risk and its effect on behaviour: A cross-national study

There is a growing effort to provide drinking water that has the trust of consumers, but the processes underlying the perception of drinking water quality and risks are still not fully understood. This paper intends to explore the factors involved in public perception of the quality and risks of drinking water. This purpose was addressed with a cross-national mixed-method approach, based on quantitative (survey) and qualitative (focus groups) data collected in the UK and Portugal. The data were analysed using several methods, including structural equation models and generalised linear models. Results suggest that perceptions of water quality and risk result from a complex interaction of diverse factors. The estimation of water quality is mostly influenced by satisfaction with organoleptic properties (especially flavour), risk perception, contextual cues, and perceptions of chemicals (lead, chlorine, and hardness). Risk perception is influenced by organoleptics, perceived water chemicals, external information, past health problems, and trust in water suppliers, among other factors. The use of tap and bottled water to drink was relatively well explained by regression analysis. Several cross-national differences were found and the implications are discussed. Suggestions for future research are provided.

Community Perception of Water Quality in a Mining-Affected Area: A Case Study for the Certej Catchment in the Apuseni Mountains in Romania

Mining-contaminated sites and the affected communities at risk are important issues on the agenda of both researchers and policy makers, particularly in the former communist block countries in Eastern Europe. Integrated analyses and expert based assessments concerning mining affected areas are important in providing solid policy guidelines for environmental and social risk management and mitigation. Based on a survey for 103 households conducted in a former mining site in the Certej Catchment of the Apuseni Mountains, western Romania, this study assesses local communities' perceptions on the quality of water in their living area. Logistic regression was used to examine peoples' perception on the quality of the main river water and of the drinking water based on several predictors relating to social and economic conditions. The results from the perception analysis were then compared with the measurements of heavy metal contamination of the main river and drinking water undertaken in the same study area. The findings indicate that perception and measurement results for the water quality in the Certej Catchment are convergent, suggesting an obvious risk that mining activities pose on the surface water. However, the perception on drinking water quality was little predicted by the regression model and does not seem to be so much related to mining as to other explanatory factors, such as special mineralogy of rock and soils or improper water treatment infrastructure, facts suggested by the measurements of the contaminants. Discussion about the implications of these joint findings for risk mitigation policies completes this article.

Perceived Water Quality, Microbial Contamination, and Point of Use Treatment of Drinking Water

Perceived Water Quality, Microbial Contamination, and Point of Use Treatment of Drinking WaterDespite numerous studies (e.g., Fewtrell et al. 2005, Sobsey 2002, Quick et al. 2002, and Clasen et al. 2006) establishing the fact that household level safe water behaviors improve in-house drinking water quality and reduce diarrheal illness, there remain important gaps in our knowledge about the determinants of safe in-home...Author(s)Christine PoulosSumeet R. PatilSubhrendu K. PattanayakJui-Chen YangSiri WoodStephen HimleyLorelei GoodyearSourceProceedings of the Water Environment FederationSubjectSession 7 - Determinants of AdoptionDocument typeConference PaperPublisherWater Environment FederationPrint publication date Jan, 2009ISSN1938-6478SICI1938-6478(20090101)2009:1L.353;1-DOI10.2175/193864709793847942Volume / Issue2009 / 1Content sourceDisinfection and Reuse SymposiumFirst / last page(s)353 - 354Copyright2009Word count806Subject keywordsWater quality perceptionsmicrobial contaminationpoint-of-use drinking water treatment

Avoidance Measures and Household Perceptions of Water Quality in Uganda

ABSTRACT The importance that households place on reducing health risks from drinking water can guide policies intended to enhance safety. Self-reported household water quality opinions and avoidance measures used by households in Kampala, Uganda, to manage health risks were analyzed. The paper is based on survey data collected from four divisions in Kampala district and analyzed using binary logit model. Survey results indicate that the majority of the respondents boil water to manage potential health risks. On the other hand, logit results confirmed the existence of strong relationships between household characteristics, opinions on water quality, and the use of avoidance measures.

An assessment of quality of water from boreholes in Bindura District, Zimbabwe

This study assessed the water quality of 144 boreholes in Bindura District in Mashonaland Province of Zimbabwe as part of a borehole rehabilitation project implemented by a local NGO. In previous studies it has been observed that some boreholes are not used for domestic purposes because of consumer perceived poor water quality. Consequently, communities have resorted to unsafe alternative water sources thus creating health risks. The study was carried out in June 2005. The objectives of the study were to assess the levels of parameters associated with the aesthetics of the water and to compare them with guideline values for drinking water. The study also investigated the relationship between some of the measured water quality and the consumer perceived water quality. Measured water quality parameters included pH, temperature, electrical conductivity (EC), turbidity, calcium (Ca), magnesium (Mg) and iron (Fe). All parameters were measured in the field except Ca, Mg and Fe, which were measured in a laboratory using a spectrophotometer. Consumer perceptions on water quality were investigated through interviews with the consumer community. Turbidity was found to be 0.75–428(20.8 ± 59.2; n = 144) NTU, pH 5.7–9.3 (6.88 ± 0.46; n = 144), temperature 18–26.8 (22.6 ± 2.1; n = 144) °C. EC 26–546 (199 ± 116; n = 144) μS/cm, Ca 6–71.6 (26.9 ± 14.1; n = 81) mg/l, Mg 1.2–49.6 (12.3 ± 10.0; n = 81) mg/l and Fe 0.08–9.60 (0.56 ± 1.15; n = 81) mg/l. Some 23% of the samples had pH outside the recommended range of 6.5–8.5, whilst 59% of the samples had turbidity values exceeding the 5NTU WHO limit. For EC, all samples had values less than the WHO derived limit of 1380 μS/cm. All Ca and magnesium values were within the common and recommended levels of 100 mg/l and 70 mg/l respectively. Iron had values greater than the WHO and SAZ limit of 0.3 mg/l in 36% of the samples. Water quality was deemed satisfactory for taste and soap consumption by 95% and 72% of the respondents respectively. Satisfaction was higher for drinking compared to soap consumption meaning that generally hard waters may still be acceptable for drinking purposes. The water quality met the stipulated standard or guideline value from a minimum of 41% (turbidity) to a maximum of 100% (EC, Ca and Mg). There was no correlation between taste and conductivity as some 5% of the respondents suggested the water was unsatisfactory although all EC values were far below the maximum limit. Again there was no correlation between iron and taste as iron had 36% of the samples above the threshold of 0.3 mg/l whilst objectionable taste perception was only in 5% of the cases. It is recommended that priority in future projects should be given to repairs of boreholes whose water quality is acceptable according to consumer perceptions obtained at project planning stage. Low cost household treatment aimed at improving quality should be investigated.

Perceived environmental quality and place attachment in North American and European temperate lake districts

Sense of place, or the meanings and attachments held for settings, continues to emerge as an important factor in environmental management. Previous research in a lake-rich setting in northern Wisconsin, USA, demonstrated that attachment to lakes is based in part on the perceived water quality and perceptions of social conflict. This research explores how these findings are similar or different across sites with very different ecological and social characteristics. To explore these cross-site similarities and differences, a social science survey was implemented in 10 lake districts (total n = 2,278 respondents), including 5 sites in North America and 5 in Europe. These sites share several commonalities: they all lie at fairly similar latitudes in the Northern Hemisphere, and they are all regions relatively rich in lake resources. The results demonstrate the myriad commonalities and contrasts in behaviors, environmental perceptions, and place attachment across sites.

Malaysian households' drinking water practices: A case study

Malaysia has abundant water resources and adequate rainfall and yet the nation has water shortages and water quality problem. Various measures have been taken by the government to address water issues but, in spite of these, quantity and quality of drinking water is still one of the main concerns of Malaysian consumers today. An exploratory study was undertaken to determine the level of awareness of respondents on water issues, assess their perception on drinking water quality, and identify measures undertaken by households to improve drinking water quality and to determine sustainable water practices. A cross-sectional research design, utilizing a survey was conducted among urban residents of Seremban town. Data showed that each household had a mean of five members, with an average household income of RM3788.00 (US$1000). The respondents were Chinese (70%), Indian (23%) and Malay (7%). The majority of respondents rated the quality of water supplied to their house as poor (70%), while 16% rated it very poor. The respondents indicated that colour, odour and taste were the main problems with their tap water. Due to the poor tap water quality perceived by respondents, most took additional measures to improve its quality. Most (85%) purchased domestic water filters, 41% boiled water and 17% bought bottled water. The reasons for purchasing water were: concern for health, perception of poor tap water quality, and increasing water contamination and pollution in the country. Almost a quarter of respondents that had water filters mentioned the convenience because they did not have to boil water. Sustainable use of water by respondents was moderate, with a mean of 2.9 on a scale of 1 (never) to 4 (all the time). Some aspects of conservation, such as the promptness of repairing leaking pipes, planning activities to conserve water, and method of car washing could be improved. Advantages and limitations of different water technologies are discussed. Sustainable water practices are also proposed.

Residential Perceptions of Environmental Exposures and Associated Health Effects in the Fresno, Texas Community

Background: Environmental contaminants are often located in areas heavily populated by African Americans, Hispanics/Latinos, and the poor. In many communities, the discovery of environmental hazards occurs following concern and investigation by its constituents. The residents of Fresno, Texas, which is a predominantly minority community located near Houston, Texas, have long-standing undocumented concerns related to potential environmental exposures and associated health effects. To begin to document the concerns of the members of the Fresno community, we used focus group methodology to examine the resident’s perceptions of the environment in the Fresno community, potential routes and sources of environmental exposures, and how Fresno residents perceived that these environmental hazards could affect their health. Methods: Focus group methodology was used to assess the Fresno communities’ perceptions of environmental exposure, perceived routes of exposure, and perceived adverse health affects. Nineteen Fresno residents took part in four focus group discussions that were recorded, transcribed, and analyzed using content analysis. Results: The residential participants overwhelmingly described poor water quality in the Fresno community. While some residents perceived that the air quality was good or clear, others described the air as poor or potentially dangerous. Some residents identified the local chemical companies, a landfill, chlorination, and a lack of public water supply as potential sources of contamination in the Fresno community. The residents perceived that environmental exposures could potentially affect their health status, in particular the drinking water. Conclusions: The findings of our study convey the concerns of the members of the Fresno community. Potential environmental exposures were identified along with sources of environmental hazards. Although there were differing perceptions of air quality, the perceptions of water quality and sources of contamination were consistent. These findings should be used in developing a larger-scale environmental health assessment in the Fresno community to examine self-reported health status and measure contaminant levels in the residential drinking water.

Community benefits and costs of surpassing drinking water quality standards

Water providers face difficult decisions when compliance with regulatory standards does not satisfy public demands for improved water quality. This study examined a community's response to a system upgrade with respect to perceptions of water quality, use of household water treatment, and purchase of bottled water. Economic implications were also investigated, including the comprehensive community benefits accruing to improved treatment. Information was obtained by surveying 590 residents in Bowling Green, Ohio, in 1997‐98 before a substantial system upgrade was implemented, and 714 residents in 2004 after the upgrade had been in place for several years. Results showed that the community response included meaningful increased satisfaction with municipal water quality and that overall community costs for drinking water were not increased. Increased municipal costs were offset by reduced reliance on more expensive alternative supplies of drinking water. The data and conclusions presented should help other utilities weighing the costs and benefits of upgrades to their systems.