Natural Wetland
Ecosystems that have submerged soil year-round that encourages the growth of aquatic plants and animals. Some examples of these include swamps and marshes.
Archives: Glossary Entries
Biological Indicators of Ecosystem Health
The change over time of the health of the plants, animals, and microorganisms that live in an ecosystem, to represent how resilient the ecosystem is against changes caused by outside factors.
Nutrients
Nutrients are a class of ionic and molecular compounds required for the maintenance of good health in any living organism. Nutrients are not naturally synthesized by organisms and therefore must be consumed to ensure proper physiological function. Despite their integral role in cell growth and development, nutrients like ammonia, ammonium, …
Ambient water quality
It shows us how the water quality is in different countries/regions. Water (lakes, rivers, and groundwater) in the environment is monitored in a nation, and specific data on diverse measurement parameters is collected and compared to standard values to assess if water is healthy and safe for humans and the …
Recycling wastewater
To reuse the water that has been used in home, industry, or agriculture safely after micro-organisms, contaminants and other pollutants are removed. The purpose of water being reused is extending water supplies such as reusing water in agriculture.
Improved Drinking Water Sources
These are water bodies or surface and underground water that are protected from contamination and pollution that are used to produce safe water for drinking. This includes pipes in residential areas and yards and other public water taps or public pipes or protected wells, protected springs and rainwater collection.
Industrial Wastewater
Wastewater is water that has been used. It can contain pollutants, pathogens or other dangers depending on where the water comes from. Industrial wastewater is used water that originates from manufacturing sources such as mines or food plants. It is important to know what type of industry the wastewater comes …
Pollution
This occurs when substances that cause harm enter the environment. The harm can be to a living thing or to the environment itself. Avoiding harmful substances entering water is an effective way to improve water quality.
Water Quality Parameters
Various physical and chemical characteristics that are measured to give information related to different bodies of water.
Sewage sludge
A semi-solid product from various types of wastewater especially from households or factories, which usually flows out through sewers. It is a product of natural or artificial wastewater treatment processes.