Contaminants in Surface Water and Groundwater - Annotated Bibliography Example

Ritter L, Solomon K, Sibley P, Hall K, Keen P, Mattu G, and Linton B, in this paper, have evaluated the resources, pathways, and hazards associated with human health at the University of Guelph, Ontario, Canada. Data collected was mainly from literature sources and drinking water surveillance program of Ontario. The assessment was limited to major contaminants i.e. metals, nitrates; pesticides and the results indicated that little risks were associated with specific concentration for these compounds present in water.

However, this study does not emphasize risks related to other contaminants i.e. pharmaceutical products and also the results are particular to specific concentrations of pollutants. U.S.E.P.A. Rivers and streams, in National water quality inventory: report. www.epa.gov/nps, 2002. 13-14. Web. This paper discusses the sources of pollutants and their identification in rivers and streams across the United States. Also, leading sources of pollution and its potential risks on human beings, environment, agriculture, and aquatic life are explained. W.W.F. Water pollution factsheet Environmental pollution unit. www.wwf.org, 2010. 1. Web. As an organization, WWF’s mission is to decrease the impact of human activities on nature and reduce pollution.

Several measures have been launched worldwide to create awareness and promote preventive measures for water pollution. This factsheet (a part of such programs) provides an insight into sources of surface and groundwater pollution, its harmful effects on the environment and human beings and what can be done on both individual and organizational levels for prevention and remediation of water pollution.