Drinking water : principles and practices

This book provides a comprehensive overview of all the major aspects of modern drinking water systems in the western European context. It covers the theoretical principles, the historical background and practical aspects of design and operation, legislation, planning and finance of drinking water supply in its social and economic context. The principles and practices are illustrated using experiences from The Netherlands. The Dutch drinking water supply is well known for its multiple barrier systems and high technical standards. The Dutch drinking water is of high quality and does not contain chlorine, and the Dutch therefore readily drink tap water and do not see the need to buy bottled water or in-house filters, with their drawbacks on national economics, public health and the environment. This illustrative overview can be used as a reference for other countries and regions. The book includes chapters on Sanitary Engineering, Drinking Water Companies, Planning and Design, Finances, Water Consumption, Water Quality, Groundwater, Surface Water, and Distribution. The book is meant for undergraduates and graduate students in civil and environmental engineering, professionals from the water industry, including government and consultants, as well as the general public.