Toxins

Toxins in water refer to harmful substances or compounds that, when present in water at elevated levels, can pose health risks to humans, aquatic life, and the environment. These toxins can originate from natural sources, industrial processes, agricultural activities and other human related factors. There are various types of toxins that are found in water, including chemical toxins, such as pollutants like heavy metals (e.g., lead, mercury), pesticides, industrial chemicals and synthetic organic compounds (e.g., PCBs, dioxins). Biological toxins which are produced by living organisms and can include harmful algae and cyanobacteria (producing toxins called cyanotoxins, as well as certain bacteria and viruses and other naturally occurring substances, like arsenic and fluoride, can be toxic at elevated levels in drinking water. Industries can release toxins into water through effluents and runoff as well as agricultural runoff can carry pesticides and fertilizers into water bodies. Groundwater is also known to become contaminated with toxins from leaking underground storage tanks, landfill and hazardous waste sites with the growth of certain types of algae which can produce toxins during blooms, leading to water contamination and cause harm to aquatic life and pose health risks when water is ingested or used for recreation. Natural sources such as natural geological formations can release toxins like arsenic or fluoride into ground water.

The health effect of waterborne toxins can vary widely depending on the specific toxins and its concentration, causing acute effects (e.g., nausea, diarrhea) and chronic effects (e.g., cancer, developmental issues) depending on exposure levels and duration. Regulatory agencies in many countries establish guidelines and standards for permissible levels of toxins in drinking water and surface waters, conducting regular testing and monitoring to ensure compliance with these standards. Various water treatment processes can remove or reduce the levels of certain toxins in drinking water, with method including, filtration, chemical treatment (e.g., activated carbon adsorption), and advanced oxidation processes. Therefore, preventing the introduction of toxins into water sources is crucial, including proper handling and disposal of hazardous materials, reducing agricultural runoff, and controlling industrial discharges.