Many of us do not think much about where our water comes from or where it goes after we use it, but it is important to know the information.
The two main sources of water are surface water and groundwater. Surface water is water that sits or flows on the surface of the earth - rivers, streams, lakes, reservoirs and oceans. Groundwater is water below the Earth's surface that can rise to the surface through leaks, springs or artificial wells.
1. The urban water cycle plays a key role in how we all get our water. The diagram below shows how man and nature work together to safely treat and deliver our water while also protecting the environment.
2. This water cycle reflects the ever-changing form of water - steam, liquid (oceans, rivers, streams, etc.) and ice.
3. Liquid water is treated in a water treatment plant.
4. Purified water is distributed through pipelines to your home as drinking water.
5. After your family uses tap water, it is discharged into the household waste water pipe and flows to the main wastewater pipe of the enterprise.
6. Hence, the water system carries the wastewater flow to the wastewater treatment plant in the area where it is treated.
7. Once the wastewater has been treated, it is either reused or released back into the environment to restart the cycle.
To find out more about your water source and its treatment, visit your local water website or contact your local water supplier.
