Groundwater Pollution: Technology, Economics and Management

Abstract

A review of the technical, economic and management aspects of groundwater pollution is presented. The groundwater pollution problem is described and several of its important characteristics are pointed out. A description of the physical, chemical and biological aspects of groundwater pollution is given. The technology of groundwater pollution detection and observation is reviewed, including elements in the design and operation of a groundwater quality monitoring system. The concept of pollution is related to the economic concept of externalities, and the interrelationships of technology, institutions and economics in groundwater pollution management are presented. Technical, institutional, legal and economic measures to induce pollution control in groundwater systems are reviewed. The financial aspects, and the costs and benefits of groundwater pollution control are discussed. The causes, types and extent of groundwater pollution are described. These include agricultural, industrial, domestic and urban, radiological, and natural or induced sources of pollution. Methods of control for each are given. Methods of analysis as applied to groundwater pollution management are described within the context of total resource management and long range planning. Criteria for choosing among alternative plans, systems analysis, and optimization and simulation techniques are discussed. A case study of integrated groundwater-surface water management with specific groundwater quality considerations is described and discussed.