This chapter will deal more specifically with some of the water pollutants of major concern
either for the environment (wildlife) or because of health and safety considerations. Heavy metals,
persistent organic pollutants (POPs), pesticides and other chemical pollutants will be discussed as well
as some of the major biological pollutants. Recent examples of drinking water contamination will be
provided. The role of acid precipitation in promoting toxicity is discussed.
Keywords: Water pollution (biological), cholera, other gastroenteric bacteria, parasites, outbreak by E. coli
O157.H7, haemolytic-uremic syndrome, water chlorination, ultraviolet water treatment, chemical water
pollution, mercury, methyl mercury, PCBs, DDT, nitrates/nitrites, acid precipitation (and copper, and
diflubenzuron, and calcium loss), daphnids, pharmaceuticals, endocrine disrupters, pesticides, radioactive
contamination.
