Pollution Evaluation

Groundwater (and also surface waters) may be unfit for potable or other uses without being polluted by human activities. Examples include the natural presence of:

• cadmium and other metals in water leached from weathered sulphide bearing strata;
• ammoniacal nitrogen and phenols in water present in organic-rich strata such as coal bearing formations;
• high chloride or sulphate concentrations in waters in contact with evaporate minerals.

An understanding of natural hydrochemistry therefore provides a strong baseline against which to evaluate the possible effects of human activities. The effects of human activities include contamination or alteration of water by sampling and during analysis and so these influences need to be ruled out before evidence of any pollution in the environment can be investigated.

In addition to Nick’s hydrochemical skills, he has a strong track record in the design of sampling and analytical protocols and the auditing of water quality data. This has then allowed him to evaluate pollution from a wide range of activities including farming, landfill, mining, gasworks and industry.