Biological Systems Engineering, Department of
Biological approaches for addressing the grand challenge of providing access to clean drinking water
Document Type
Article
Date of this Version
2011
Citation
Riley et al. Journal of Biological Engineering 2011, 5:2
Abstract
The U.S. National Academy of Engineering (NAE) recently published a document presenting “Grand Challenges for Engineering”. This list was proposed by leading engineers and scientists from around the world at the request of the U.S. National Science Foundation (NSF). Fourteen topics were selected for these grand challenges, and at least seven can be addressed using the tools and methods of biological engineering. Here we describe how biological engineers can address the challenge of providing access to clean drinking water. This issue must be addressed in part by removing or inactivating microbial and chemical contaminants in order to properly deliver water safe for human consumption. Despite many advances in technologies this challenge is expanding due to increased pressure on fresh water supplies and to new opportunities for growth of potentially pathogenic organisms.
Included in
Bioresource and Agricultural Engineering Commons, Civil and Environmental Engineering Commons
Comments
© 2011 Riley et al; licensee BioMed Central Ltd.