Drinking water supply – a backward look into the future

An adequate supply of pure and wholesome water, together with effective main drainage and treatment of wastewater, before returning it to the aquatic environment, are arguably the most beneficial public health measures which can be taken by a community. When properly managed, their success derives from breaking cycles of transmissible disease. History has repeatedly shown that good process engineering – even at the simplest level – must be accompanied by effective management and responsibility at all levels, in order to protect public health. Conversely, even seemingly minor breakdowns in vigilance and the managerial chain, can result in sudden outbreaks of disease. Experiences over two millennia are cited in support. As a new millennium is about to commence, it is natural and prudent to ask what future problems of waterborne diseases might emerge. Candidates might be chosen, and vigilance cannot be relaxed, but experiences of the past enable make it possible to conclude that potential concerns are generically, those which render existing barriers to transmission of infection inoperative and, those which alter or impede existing patterns of communication between and within organisations and individuals responsible for water quality.