Water is a vital resource for human life, however, it does contain heavy metals that are highly toxic and can seriously affect water quality. These chemical elements have a high density and toxicity, and can be found naturally in soil, water, and air. However, activities such as mining and industrialization contribute significantly to the presence of heavy metals in water.
This can become a public health problem if not adequately treated, since its presence generates consequences for human health -even- in small quantities as it accumulates in the human body, causing damage to the nervous, cardiovascular and kidney systems. They can also cause neurological, reproductive and developmental disorders, as well as cancer.
Mercury is one of the most dangerous heavy metals and commonly found in water. Mercury is released into the environment by industries, mining, and the burning of fossil fuels. Fish are particularly vulnerable, and those who eat contaminated fish can experience brain damage, memory and concentration problems, and even vision problems.
Lead is another heavy metal that can be found in water and have serious health consequences. Lead is usually released into the environment from pipes in old water systems, as well as from industries and mining. Lead exposure can cause brain damage, developmental problems in children, kidney, cardiovascular and even fatal in large doses.
Arsenic can be found in water and is highly toxic. It is found naturally in the soil and agriculture can be an exhibitor for it to reach the environment. It can cause damage to the skin, nervous system, cardiovascular system and increases the risk of cancer.
To prevent heavy metal contamination of water, it is important to take steps to reduce the amount of heavy metals released into the environment. This can include greener practices in industry and mining, the use of more modern and safer water systems, and educating the public about the dangers of water pollution.
The aqueduct and potable water companies in Panama take measures to control this type of situation. The important thing that the general population and companies should do is to prevent and protect water in the following way, so how to protect water?
Control toxic waste
One of the main sources of water contamination by heavy metals is the dumping of toxic waste. Therefore, it is important to control and regulate toxic waste, whether in rivers, streams or on the ground. Companies must implement ideal and safe waste management practices, to avoid minimizing the risk of heavy metals contaminating water.
Avoid pesticides and chemical fertilizers
These types of products contain heavy metals that can leach into the soil and contaminate groundwater. To prevent this risk, it is best to avoid chemical pesticides and fertilizers, and instead use sustainable and organic farming practices. It is a trend that is progressing slowly, but one that should be encouraged more.
Promote soil conservation
Soil erosion can release heavy metals into the water. Therefore, it is important to promote its conservation, implementing techniques such as direct sowing and crop rotation to reduce its erosion.
Promote clean technologies
Clean technologies are those that reduce or eliminate the production of toxic waste and the emission of greenhouse gases. Promoting the use of clean technologies can help reduce the amount of heavy metals released into the environment.
Promote education and awareness
These are fundamental actions to prevent water contamination by heavy metals. It is important to educate people about the sources of contamination, the health risks, as well as safe and sustainable practices that they can adopt. Likewise, it is important to promote awareness in the population so that it assumes an active role in protecting the environment and preventing water contamination by heavy metals.
In summary, prevention is a major challenge and requires the implementation of various strategies. From controlling the dumping of toxic waste to promoting education and awareness, all measures taken can contribute to reducing the impact of heavy metals to care for human health.
Filters to protect the home
To protect themselves, many people choose to install a water filter in their home. There are several types available on the market, but some are more effective than others. One of the best filters to remove heavy metals is the reverse osmosis filter. This filter process uses a semi-permeable membrane to effectively remove impurities, including heavy metals.
Another alternative is activated carbon filters, equally effective in removing heavy metals from water.
In addition to these filters, there are other methods that can help reduce the amount of heavy metals in your water, such as distillation and demineralization. However, these procedures can be more expensive and less practical than water filters.
It is important to remember that although water filters can be effective in removing heavy metals, not all are created equal. It is important to read the specifications carefully before purchasing to ensure that it is designed to remove specific contaminants found in water.
At Sanaté we have high-quality filters that can protect you from heavy metals in the shower, minimizing the risks of damage to the skin, face, eyes, and scalp. In addition to retaining them, it helps to purify the dirt and materials that most pipes have due to contamination and rust.
It is important to keep in mind that water filters must be maintained regularly to ensure that they continue to function effectively, that is, clean the filter parts, for which Sanaté has a simple process.
In short, if you are looking for an effective way to protect yourself against heavy metals in your water, water filters may be the best solution. However, it is important to choose the right type of filter and maintain it correctly.
In conclusion, heavy metal contamination of water can have serious consequences for human health and the environment. It is important to take steps to reduce the amount of heavy metals released into the environment and to protect drinking water supplies for future generations.