Water Research Foundation suggests ways to remove cyanobacteria and toxic algae from water

US based Water Research Foundation (WRF) has released the findings of a study on how to remove cyanobacteria and other toxic algae from potable water.

The research organisation has released their latest findings under the study titled as, ‘Optimizing Conventional Treatment for Removal of Cyanobacteria and Toxins’.

The findings from the study offers guidance to water utilities on optimisation of conventional water treatment for removing cyanobacteria and metabolites, without compromising on other water quality standards.

WRF executive director Rob Renner said: "This important research will help utilities better manage contamination issues from toxic algal blooms and ensure that their communities continue to receive safe drinking water."

The report follows the advancement of a bill by the US House of Representatives Energy and Commerce Committee, which will instruct the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to formulate a plan aimed at assessment and management of risks associated with cyanotoxin contamination in public drinking water systems.

The experimental works for the study was conducted at the Australian Water Quality Centre, which is a business unit of the South Australian Water (SA Water), and the Metropolitan Water District of Southern California (MWDSC).

WRF has also collaborated with the American Water Works Association to form two cyanotoxin utility action guides for the water industry.

Expected to be released by 2015, the guides can ensure better water utility management by indicating if the presence of cyanotoxins in the water system can be an issue for the utility. The guides can also direct the utilities about the initial steps to be taken for handling the issues.