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Wednesday, June 26, 2024
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Privatization in Water Treatment

By
Nate Talley
-
Privatized Water Treatment Facility

Water Treatment is going through a radical shift towards developing more environmentally resilient technologies from both public-private partnerships and venture capital. After all, where the public sector lacks, private industry can often thrive. But is that necessarily a good thing?

Privatization introduces a competitive market environment. Private firms invest in more cost-effective and innovative technologies, passing on the benefits to consumers through improved services at competitive prices. Additionally, privatization will alleviate the financial burden on some strained public entities, allowing them to redirect resources to other critical areas such as infrastructure upkeep. This shift not only promotes economic growth but also enhances the quality of water treatment services equitably for everyone. 

Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs) blend the strengths of both sectors, offering an effective model for water treatment advancements. These partnerships allow for leveraging private sector investments and expertise while maintaining public oversight and regulation. PPPs often lead to better resource allocation, operational efficiency, and service delivery in water treatment. The economic advantage of such collaborations is significant, as they enable the implementation of high-cost infrastructure projects without placing undue financial strain on public funds. 

Venture capital plays a pivotal role in driving innovation in the water treatment sector as well. By funding start-ups and new technologies, VCs promote a culture of innovation, necessary for developing advanced, cost-effective treatment solutions. These investments often lead to the development of breakthrough technologies that can significantly reduce operational costs and improve efficiency for specialists worldwide. 

One of the standout benefits of privatization in water treatment is how it transforms operations to be more effective and efficient. Private companies, driven by a commitment to high performance, often surpass the traditional methods of public sector organizations by adopting the latest technologies and smarter management practices. This modern approach usually leads to lower operational costs, more responsible use of resources, and less waste. This heightened efficiency doesn’t just help the companies; it directly benefits the customers they serve and plays a key role in building a more economically sustainable future for water treatment. 

AI and Water Treatment

By
Nate Talley
-
AI potential in water

Most people by now are familiar with artificial intelligence writing and data analysis tools like ChatGPT, even if they haven’t used it themselves, but AI is also making a splash in industrial jobs as well. You may be surprised to know that the integration of AI into water treatment facilities is already transforming the industry. No longer a fictitious foe for a science fiction plot, AI now promises to provide solutions to some of the most pressing challenges faced by water treatment professionals today. 

AI has already made significant inroads into daily operations within the water treatment industry. One of the most prominent applications is in the optimization of treatment processes. Machine learning algorithms can analyze vast datasets, identifying patterns that human operators might miss. This capability allows for the adjustment of chemical dosing in real-time, minimizing waste and improving treatment efficacy. 

Moreover, AI is instrumental in predictive maintenance. By monitoring the performance data from equipment, AI can predict when a pump might fail or when a filter needs replacement before it causes a system-wide issue. This not only prevents downtime but also extends the lifespan of critical infrastructure. 

AI’s role in monitoring water quality is perhaps one of its most crucial applications. Sophisticated sensors coupled with AI algorithms are being used to detect contaminants at levels previously undetectable. This technology provides an unprecedented level of detail about water composition, enabling treatment plants to respond to issues swiftly and effectively.As AI technology advances, its potential applications within water treatment continue to grow. One emerging area is the use of AI in managing water distribution networks. AI systems can optimize the flow of water throughout these networks, reducing energy consumption and ensuring that water pressure remains consistent across all service areas. 

Another exciting development is the use of AI-driven robotics for underwater inspections and repairs. These AI-assisted robots can perform tasks in environments that are hazardous to human divers, such as in toxic water conditions or in areas with restricted access, largely reducing the risks of human operators in emergency scenarios. Furthermore, AI is being leveraged to tackle the global issue of water scarcity. Through advanced data analytics, AI helps in water loss management by detecting leaks and anomalies in the system that human surveillance might not capture. 

While the benefits are substantial, integrating AI into water treatment systems is not without its challenges. One concern that has reared its head in recent months is cybersecurity. As water treatment plants become more connected, the potential for cyberattacks increases. Ensuring that AI systems are secure from such threats is paramount. Another consideration is the fiscal cost. While AI can save money in the long run, the initial investment can be draining to smaller operations.  

Additionally, there is a need for skilled personnel who can manage and interpret AI systems. This necessitates ongoing education and training for water treatment professionals to keep pace with technological advancements. 

In the water treatment industry, artificial intelligence is no longer just a futuristic concept; it’s a present-day reality. With its ability to analyze and learn from data, AI is helping professionals make smarter decisions, reduce costs, and improve water quality. As the technology continues to evolve, so will its applications, offering new tools to address the growing demand for clean and safe water worldwide AI offers a wellspring of opportunities for water treatment professionals.  

Sources: WSP, Nature, Science Direct, Auto Desk

Cybersecurity: Israeli-made Components Become a Target for Hackers

By
Nate Talley
-
Hackers, Cyber Attack

The critical importance of cybersecurity in water treatment facilities has come into sharp focus lately with a slew of attacks in just a few weeks. Worldwide there have been multiple instances of cyberattacks targeting these essential services, underscoring the need for enhanced digital defenses for our most precious resources. These incidents not only highlight the vulnerabilities of water systems to cyber threats but also the evolving nature of these digital threats. 

Just days ago on December 7th, a water treatment plant in the Irish city of Erris faced a cyberattack that left about 180 residences without water for two days. This attack was linked to the use of equipment from Israeli companies, targeted by a group believed to be from Iran called CyberAv3ngers. In the U.S., the Municipal Water Authority of Aliquippa, Pennsylvania, also experienced a breach by this group, which managed to control a device at a remote water station. 
 
The CyberAv3ngers, a group believed to be linked to Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, is engaging in cyberattacks on critical infrastructure, including water treatment facilities, as part of a broader geopolitical strategy. Their actions appear to be motivated by the desire to undermine Israel, by targeting entities using Israeli-made equipment. It appears these attacks are not just about causing immediate disruption but are also part of a larger messaging effort to influence international perceptions and exert geopolitical pressure.  

These incidents underscore the challenges water treatment facilities face in securing critical infrastructure. The CyberAv3ngers’ attacks, though not known for their sophistication, demonstrate the vulnerability of facilities that neglect basic security measures. Furthermore, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has been scrutinized for insufficient resources and personnel to adequately address these cybersecurity challenges. 

The Biden administration announced plans to improve the digital defenses of public water systems earlier this year, with a focus on industry accountability. This includes novel rules placing more responsibility for securing water facilities at the state level. However, experts like Mark Montgomery, former executive director of the Cyberspace Solarium Commission, criticize these measures as inadequate, pointing out that both the EPA and states lack the necessary resources. The water treatment industry also expressed concerns, with the American Water Works Association highlighting practical problems in the government’s approach. 

The incidents revealed technical vulnerabilities, such as poor security practices and outdated software. For example, the breach in Pennsylvania exploited poor security practices, including an exposed device to the internet and weak password protocols. Cybersecurity experts recommend not only patching these vulnerabilities but also adopting robust security measures like multi-factor authentication and regular security audits. In this digital age, cybersecurity is an integral component of water treatment operations. Facilities must stay abreast of the latest threats and ensure that their systems are fortified against potential breaches. This includes regular updates to security protocols, employee training in cybersecurity best practices, and collaboration with government agencies for guidance and support. 

The recent cyberattacks on water treatment plants in Ireland and the U.S. serve as a wake-up call for the industry. As cyber threats evolve, so must the strategies to combat them. This requires a concerted effort from both the government and the water treatment industry to invest in stronger cybersecurity measures, enhance employee training, and develop more resilient infrastructure. The safety and reliability of water services depend on the industry’s ability to adapt and respond to these digital threats effectively. 

Sources: CyberScoop, Reuters, Western People

Navigating the Silver Tsunami: The Aging Workforce in the Water Treatment Industry

By
Nate Talley
-
Senior Water Analyst

The water treatment industry, vital for ensuring the safety and availability of one of our most crucial resources, is facing a demographic challenge that could impact its future sustainability and efficiency. Known as the “Silver Tsunami,” the aging workforce in this sector poses significant hurdles for hiring qualified professionals in the coming years. This article delves into the implications of this trend and explores strategies to mitigate potential risks. 

The water industry, like many other sectors, is experiencing a wave of retirements as baby boomers exit the workforce. A 2020 survey by the Water Environment Federation (WEF) indicated that a significant portion of the workforce is nearing retirement age. This scenario is set against a backdrop of increasing demand for water treatment services, driven by a growing population and heightened environmental concerns. 

The departure of experienced workers means not just a reduction in numbers, but a substantial loss of institutional knowledge and specialized skills unique to water treatment. Newer employees must be trained not only in the latest technologies but also in the nuanced, site-specific knowledge that departing workers possess. Moreover, the industry is already grappling with challenges in attracting younger workers who often overlook this sector in favor of more high-profile technological fields. 

Filling the void left by retiring professionals is not a straightforward task. The water treatment industry requires a combination of technical skills, regulatory knowledge, and practical experience. However, there is a noticeable gap in these skill sets among younger workers. Additionally, the industry has struggled to effectively market itself to millennials and Gen Z, who are more driven by career paths offering technological advancement and sustainable development opportunities. 

To effectively navigate the challenges posed by the aging workforce in the water treatment industry, a multi-faceted approach towards future workforce development is essential. This includes investing in enhanced training programs that not only provide comprehensive technical knowledge but also facilitate mentorship and the transfer of invaluable insights from seasoned professionals to newcomers. Equally crucial is the collaboration with educational institutions, such as universities and technical schools, to develop curricula that align with the specific needs of the industry, thus creating a steady flow of graduates who are ready to tackle job responsibilities.  

Additionally, there’s a pressing need to rebrand water treatment careers, highlighting them as not just vital and rewarding, but also as roles at the forefront of technological advancement and environmental sustainability. Leveraging modern technology, particularly virtual and augmented reality, in training methodologies can attract tech-savvy younger generations and make the learning process more efficient. Furthermore, implementing diversity and inclusion initiatives can enhance the sector’s appeal to a broader range of young professionals. Finally, offering competitive compensation, clear career pathways, and emphasizing the stability and long-term prospects in the water treatment sector are essential strategies to attract and retain the new generation of workers. These concerted efforts are pivotal in ensuring that the industry remains robust and capable of adapting to evolving challenges and innovations. 

The aging workforce in the water treatment industry is a pressing issue that requires immediate and strategic action. By investing in training, collaborating with educational institutions, rebranding the industry, and embracing diversity and technology, we can ensure a steady influx of skilled professionals. These efforts will not only address the workforce gap but also propel the industry forward, adapting to new challenges and innovations in the field. 

Citations: (1) Water Environment Federation. (2020). Workforce Survey Report. 

Addressing Saltwater Intrusion: A Technical Perspective

By
Nate Talley
-
Salt Water Intrusive

Water treatment technicians, tasked with safeguarding the quality of our aquatic resources, are facing a subtle yet significant threat in the Mississippi River. Beyond the familiar challenges presented by the sea, an insidious issue arises: the progressive intrusion of saltwater into the delta. 

Due to long lasting drought upstream, saltwater is moving up the Mississippi River. The denser saltwater flows underneath the less dense freshwater, creating a two-level flow pattern in a wedge-shaped formation. The saltwater wedge is pushed upstream by the tides and by the prevailing winds. The Mississippi River is primarily a freshwater river, so the intrusion of saltwater is likely to be highly detrimental for local drinking water and infrastructure.  

Currently the Army Corps of Engineers has constructed underwater sills on the river at a number of locations, including near Head of Passes, Louisiana. Underwater sills are typically constructed of rock or concrete and are placed across the riverbed. They are designed to slow the upstream movement of saltwater by increasing the resistance to flow. The Corps also operates a number of reservoirs on the river that allow it to release fresh water to combat the intrusion, but these are not permanent solutions.  

The good news is the distance required for saltwater to cause problems in the Mississippi’s infrastructural water intakes is quite far, likely tens to hundreds of miles. However, the salinity of the saltwater is a critical factor. Generally, freshwater sources like the Mississippi River have low salinity, so even a small increase in salt content due to seawater intrusion can have adverse effects on drinking water quality and the infrastructure that relies on freshwater for local towns and cities. Aside from drinking water and infrastructure concerns, saltwater intrusion can also have detrimental effects on the local ecosystems, aquatic life, and vegetation that depend on freshwater. Salt can also slowly corrode pipes, making this a potentially long-lasting infrastructural problem. 

In addressing the challenge, both the government of Louisiana and the Army Corps are shifting their focus towards substantial initiatives. This includes the potential implementation of reverse osmosis units to extract salt from drinking water, the construction of a 55-foot-tall underwater levee to impede the encroachment of the saltwater wedge, and a rather bold strategy involving the transportation of millions of gallons of freshwater downstream to alleviate salt overload in water systems. 

From maintaining reverse osmosis units to supervising the structural integrity of the proposed underwater levee and managing freshwater transportation logistics, the expertise of technicians is crucial. These expert contributions ensure the efficacy of these interventions and pave the way toward innovation, resilience, and safeguarding our communities against the nuanced threat of saltwater intrusion. Through strategic, targeted efforts, we can protect our water systems, maintaining their safety and functionality amidst this lurking challenge.

Drinking Water Contamination Incidents: Is Your PR Team Ready?

By
Desirée Sykes
-
City Water Contamination

Most water treatment professionals are used to the day-to-day analysis of water and maintenance that comes with the job. Howbeit, not all are prepared for a drinking water contamination incident such as E.coli. Is your team ready to respond when an emergency strikes?

Unfortunately, this topic hits close to home for me. As a resident of Tyler and customer of TWU, I was quick to learn about a boil notice issued by the City of Tyler for E.coli contamination, and of course, was mildly horrified. The boil notice didn’t last long, though; the city lifted it the following day at 11 am. After talking with other residents and customers of TWU, to my surprise, this was not the first time the city has had water quality issues. Feeling concerned, I reached out to the City and asked if it was normal after E.coli detection in a water sample to only have a 24-hour boil notice for customers?

The City of Tyler released this statement:

“It is not normal for us to have a water sample test positive for E.coli.  We take dozens of samples everyday at various points around the City. Those samples got to the North East Texas Public Heath Regional Laboratory in Tyler to be tested according to TCEQ requirements.  

The boil water notice had to be issued  as the result of a single routine sample site tested showing the presence of e. coli, followed by a repeat sample at the same site in Central Tyler showing the presence of total coliform. E. coli was only found in one sample site out of many tested.   

Tyler water meets and exceeds all State and Federal standards. Our water system is safe.”

Famed environmental activist, Erin Brockovich, has long expressed concerns over the safety of the city’s water. In 2015, responding to another TWU water contamination incident, she posted on Facebook that the City was downplaying the incident. City officials were quick to respond to her post, “Our drinking water is the No. 1 priority of this department,” Assistant City Manager Susan Guthrie said. “We followed exactly what TCEQ requires us to do.”

No matter your opinion on the safety of Tyler’s water, the fact remains that the city was quick to respond in both situations. When disaster strikes, water facilities need to be prepared to react assuredly and quickly to ease customers’ minds. To avoid being caught unprepared, the EPA offers this guidance on how to react in situations like these. The City of Tyler followed the guidance of The Distribution System Contamination Response Procedure (DSCRP) outlined by the EPA, does your facility have a plan in place to do the same?

Sources: EPA.gov, City of Tyler, Tyler Morning Telegraph

Water Treatment 411 is your premier resource for the latest developments, technologies, and best practices in water treatment. Dedicated to professionals in the field, we provide essential insights and updates that promote sustainable and efficient water management solutions.
Contact us: watertreatment@industry411.com
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