Potable water is scarce vital resource. It is estimated that only 0.4% of water on the planet is fit for human consumption. This is why it is essential to invest in water purification, to ensure that everyone has access to this vital resource.

Water purification is the process by which water is treated so that it can be consumed by human beings without there being a risk to health. Consumption can refer to drinking and in the preparation of food.

Purification consists mainly of eliminating substances that are toxic to people, such as chromium, lead and zinc, as well as algae, sand or bacteria and viruses which can be present in water. In essence, it aims to eliminate any potential risk to the health of people.

Water is purified in what is technically known as a DWTP or Drinking Water Treatment Plant. This commonly refers to facilities such as water purification plants.

The water purification process varies according to the natural features of the terrain. For example:

• If the source of the water is on the surface (river water or a lake), the purification treatment should consist of a process of separation of certain components of the natural water, followed by the precipitation of impurities, filtration and disinfection with chlorine or ozone.
• If the water source contains salts and/or heavy metals the processes for eliminating these types of impurities is more complicated and costly. In coastal areas or regions with scarce water resources, potable water can be obtained by desalination, which normally involves reverse osmosis or distillation.