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Pinto RB, van Emmerik THM, Duah K, van der Ploeg M, Uijlenhoet R. Mismanaged plastic waste as a predictor for river plastic pollution. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 951:175463. [PMID: 39153608 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.175463] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2024] [Revised: 07/24/2024] [Accepted: 08/10/2024] [Indexed: 08/19/2024]
Abstract
Hydrometeorological processes are often assumed to be key drivers of plastic transport. However, the predominant focus on these factors overlooks the impact of anthropogenic factors, such as mismanaged plastic waste (MPW) on plastic transport variability. Here, we investigate the roles of both anthropogenic and hydrometeorological factors on plastic pollution in the Odaw catchment, Ghana. Data on macroplastic transport and density were collected at ten locations between December 2021 and December 2022. We tested for differences between the wet and dry seasons and applied a multiple regression analysis to examine the separate and combined impact of hydrometeorological variables (rainfall, discharge, and windspeed) on macroplastic transport. Additionally, we analyzed the spatial correlation in macroplastic transport/density with MPW and population density. Data collection involved visual counting of floating macroplastics at 10 river locations and counting litter at 9 riverbanks and land locations. Rainfall data was sourced from TAHMO (Trans-African Hydrometeorological Observatory), discharge was measured during field campaigns, and windspeed data sourced from a global climate data provider. We used globally modelled MPW estimates to represent anthropogenic factors. Contrary to previous studies, we found no seasonal differences in macroplastic pollution and only weak correlations were observed between the hydrometeorological variables and macroplastic transport. However, a strong correlation was observed between MPW and macroplastic pollution. We hypothesize that, the influence of hydrometeorological factors on macroplastic transport depend on the relative impact of anthropogenic factors. Our research highlights the limited role of hydrometeorology, showing the significant role of mismanaged plastic waste to field monitored macroplastic pollution variability in the catchment. This insight is essential for future research as it highlights the importance of holistically investigating both anthropogenic and hydrometeorological factors in explaining plastic transport and retention dynamics. This insight is essential for developing interventions that effectively address plastic pollution in catchments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rose Boahemaa Pinto
- Hydrology and Environmental Hydraulics Group, Wageningen University, Wageningen, the Netherlands.
| | - Tim H M van Emmerik
- Hydrology and Environmental Hydraulics Group, Wageningen University, Wageningen, the Netherlands
| | | | - Martine van der Ploeg
- Hydrology and Environmental Hydraulics Group, Wageningen University, Wageningen, the Netherlands
| | - Remko Uijlenhoet
- Department of Water Management, Faculty of Civil Engineering & Geosciences, Delft University of Technology, Delft, the Netherlands
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2
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Alabi OA, Lawrence OE, Ayeni FE, Olumurewa JAV. Health risk and germ cell toxicity of five commercially available sachet waters in Nigeria: a public health concern. Toxicol Res (Camb) 2024; 13:tfae101. [PMID: 38962114 PMCID: PMC11217554 DOI: 10.1093/toxres/tfae101] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2024] [Revised: 06/17/2024] [Accepted: 06/28/2024] [Indexed: 07/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Sachet water is the most common form of portable water commercially available in Nigeria. Methodology Using the murine sperm count and sperm abnormality assay, the germ cell toxicity of five common commercially available sachet waters in Nigeria was assessed in this study. The levels of hormones such as Follicle Stimulating Hormone (FSH), Luteinizing Hormone (LH) and Total Testosterone (TT); and activities of catalase (CAT), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), superoxide dismutase (SOD), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) were evaluated. The heavy metal and physicochemical parameters of the sachet waters were also analyzed. Healthy male mice were allowed to freely drink the sachet waters for 35 days after which they were sacrificed. Results The findings indicated that the concentrations of some heavy metals (As, Cr, and Cd) in the sachet waters exceeded the limit by regulatory organizations. The data of the total carcinogenic risk (TCR) and total non-carcinogenic risk (THQ) of some heavy metals associated with the ingestion of sachet water for adults and children showed that the values exceeded the acceptable threshold, and thus, is indicative of a high non-carcinogenic and carcinogenic risks. The data of the sperm abnormality assay showed that in the exposed mice, the five sachet waters induced a statistically significant (P < 0.05) increase in abnormal sperm cells and a significantly lower mean sperm count. Additionally noted were changes in the serum activities of TT, FSH, ALP, AST, ALT, and LH. Conclusion Thus, the sachet waters studied contained agents that can induce reproductive toxicity in exposed humans. This is of public health importance and calls for immediate action by regulatory bodies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Okunola Adenrele Alabi
- Department of Biology, Federal University of Technology, 340110, Akure, Ondo State, Nigeria
- Department of Biotechnology, Federal University of Technology, 340110, Akure, Ondo State, Nigeria
| | - Olufunbi Esther Lawrence
- Department of Biotechnology, Federal University of Technology, 340110, Akure, Ondo State, Nigeria
| | - Funmilayo Esther Ayeni
- Department of Biology, Federal University of Technology, 340110, Akure, Ondo State, Nigeria
| | - John A V Olumurewa
- Department of Biotechnology, Federal University of Technology, 340110, Akure, Ondo State, Nigeria
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3
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Matupang DM, Zulkifli HI, Arnold J, Lazim AM, Ghaffar MA, Musa SM. Tropical sharks feasting on and swimming through microplastics: First evidence from Malaysia. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2023; 189:114762. [PMID: 36870137 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2023.114762] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2022] [Revised: 02/16/2023] [Accepted: 02/18/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Plastic can be degraded into microplastic (<5 mm) and has been polluting worldwide marine environment and negatively impact human health. Microplastics in marine organisms are still understudied in Malaysia, let alone from a subclass Elasmobranchii. Five tropical shark species (Carcharhinus dussumieri, Carcharhinus sorrah, Chiloscyllium hasseltii, Chiloscyllium punctatum, and Scoliodon laticaudus) were examined for the presence of microplastics. 74 sharks were sampled from the local wet market and 100 % of samples contained microplastics. A total of 2211 plastic particles were found in gastrointestinal tracts (GIT) and gills, where 29.88 ± 2.34 particles per shark (mean ± SEM). Black (40.07 %) and fiber (84.44 %) microplastics were the most dominant. Extracted microplastic sizes ranged from 0.007 mm to 4.992 mm. This study suggests that microplastic uptake is gender-related for some shark species. A subsample of microplastics (10 %) was used for polymer type identification, where polyester was recorded the highest (43.95 %).
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel M Matupang
- Marine Science Programme, Department of Earth Sciences and Environment, Faculty of Science and Technology, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, 43600 Bangi, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Haziq I Zulkifli
- Marine Science Programme, Department of Earth Sciences and Environment, Faculty of Science and Technology, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, 43600 Bangi, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Jonathan Arnold
- Marine Science Programme, Department of Earth Sciences and Environment, Faculty of Science and Technology, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, 43600 Bangi, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Azwan Mat Lazim
- Department of Chemical Sciences, Faculty of Science and Technology, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, 43600 Bangi, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Mazlan Abd Ghaffar
- Faculty of Science and Marine Environment, Universiti Malaysia Terengganu, 21030 Kuala Terengganu, Terengganu, Malaysia; Climate Change Adaptation Laboratory, Institute of Marine Biotechnology, Universiti Malaysia Terengganu, 21030 Kuala Terengganu, Terengganu, Malaysia
| | - Syafiq M Musa
- Marine Science Programme, Department of Earth Sciences and Environment, Faculty of Science and Technology, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, 43600 Bangi, Selangor, Malaysia; Marine Ecosystem Research Centre (EKOMAR), Faculty of Science and Technology, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Malaysia.
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4
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Gan Y, Gao J, Zhang J, Wu X, Zhang T, Shao M. University Students' Knowledge, Attitudes, and Behaviors Related to Marine Environment Pollution. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:16671. [PMID: 36554552 PMCID: PMC9778795 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph192416671] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2022] [Revised: 11/29/2022] [Accepted: 12/07/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Recent research on marine environment pollution (MEP) has primarily focused on legislative and market-based instruments rather than on understanding related knowledge, attitudes, and behaviors. Within this context, we used a survey of university students in China to investigate attitudes and behaviors related to MEP. Specifically, we employed a tri-component attitude model to analyze questionnaire data from 446 randomly selected students. Our results indicate that participants had a good knowledge of MEP. Furthermore, our data revealed the following three MEP-related attitudinal clusters: activists, supporters, and onlookers. Activists showed negative attitudes toward MEP with strong anti-MEP behaviors. Supporters also had negative attitudes toward MEP but performed less anti-MEP behaviors. Finally, onlookers exhibited indifferent attitudes with neutral MEP-related behaviors. Each of the three attitudinal clusters varied according to the demographic characteristics of the participants. The implications of these results on the reduction in MEP were discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yongtao Gan
- Institute of Higher Education, Shantou University, Shantou 515063, China
| | - Jian Gao
- Institute of Higher Education, Shantou University, Shantou 515063, China
| | - Jiahao Zhang
- Institute of Higher Education, Shantou University, Shantou 515063, China
| | - Xia Wu
- Institute of Higher Education, Shantou University, Shantou 515063, China
| | - Tian Zhang
- Institute of Higher Education, Shantou University, Shantou 515063, China
| | - Mengjun Shao
- Jing Hengyi School of Education, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou 311121, China
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Angnunavuri PN, Attiogbe F, Mensah B. Effect of storage on the levels of phthalates in high-density polyethylene (HDPE) film-packaged drinking water. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2022; 845:157347. [PMID: 35842145 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2022.157347] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2022] [Revised: 07/02/2022] [Accepted: 07/10/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE)-packaged water is a popular choice for urban potable water across Africa. However, the sources and fate of priority chemical contaminants have not been adequately reported. The present study seeks to determine the effect of storage and labelling on the levels of phthalates - dimethyl phthalate (DMP), diethyl phthalate (DEP), dibutyl phthalate (DBP), benzyl butyl phthalate (BBP) and di(2-hexylethyl) phthalate (DEHP) - in HDPE packaged water. Printed and unprinted 500 mL packet samples, treated water and raw water samples were collected from two major companies in Accra and stored at three temperature levels for 28 days. Phthalates were extracted and pre-concentrated for analysis by GC-MS weekly. The results indicated that phthalates loading became detectable within the first 7 days of incubation, with printed samples showing higher concentrations than unprinted samples at every incubation temperature. The highest concentration was recorded for BBP (1.03 μg/L between a lower and upper confidence limits of 0.62 μg/L and 1.42 μg/L). Temperature significantly affected the concentration of DMP for printed packets (p-value = 0.05) and unprinted samples (p-value = 0.06), BBP across all samples, and DEHP in printed samples (p-value = 0.06). On the other hand, storage duration significantly affected the concentration of BBP across all samples. There was a very strong correlation between printing and the concentration of phthalates in the water samples (p-values <0.001) across the storage temperatures. Effect size analysis established significant differences between site-specific printed and unprinted samples. The present study revealed weak interactions between the selected phthalates and the HDPE matrix, and recommends alternative packaging that can restrict the presence of phthalates and other priority chemicals in plastic packaged drinking water.
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Affiliation(s)
- Prosper Naah Angnunavuri
- School of Engineering, Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of Energy and Natural Resources, Sunyani, Ghana.
| | - Francis Attiogbe
- School of Engineering, Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of Energy and Natural Resources, Sunyani, Ghana
| | - Bismark Mensah
- School of Engineering, University of Ghana, Legon, Ghana
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Angnunavuri PN, Attiogbe F, Mensah B. Microbial contamination and quantitative microbial risk assessment of high-density polyethylene (HDPE) film sachet drinking water in Ghana. JOURNAL OF WATER AND HEALTH 2022; 20:1587-1603. [PMID: 36308501 DOI: 10.2166/wh.2022.163] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
The present research estimated the impact of storage on the microbial quality of high-density polyethylene drinking water. Samples were taken from two popular companies in Greater Accra using a two-sided exact test in SAS JMP to estimate the sample size. The samples were stored across three temperature profiles at 8 °C, 30 °C (average room temperature), and 40 °C (average outdoor temperature) for 28 days. The samples were examined using standard microbiological methods for heterotrophic plate counts (HPCs), faecal coliforms, and Escherichia coli. The data were described and regressed with Microsoft Excel, Argo 4.3.1, and SAS JMP software. The results demonstrated increasing deterioration of the water samples for all microbial indices at all temperatures with increasing storage duration. The highest HPC, faecal coliforms, and E. coli were 1,312; 622; and 252 cfu/100 mL, respectively, all at 40 °C. The daily risk of infection due to E. coli O157:H7 was 5.22 × 10-5 infections per child per day for children under 5 years, and 1.6 × 10-4 attacks per adult per day, compared to the upper limit of 1.0 × 10-6. These results are higher than recommended exposures, and interventions along the sachet drinking water value chain are needed to protect public health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Prosper Naah Angnunavuri
- School of Engineering, Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of Energy and Natural Resources, Sunyani, Ghana E-mail:
| | - Francis Attiogbe
- School of Engineering, Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of Energy and Natural Resources, Sunyani, Ghana E-mail:
| | - Bismark Mensah
- School of Engineering, University of Ghana, Legon, Ghana
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Dasgupta S, Sarraf M, Wheeler D. Plastic waste cleanup priorities to reduce marine pollution: A spatiotemporal analysis for Accra and Lagos with satellite data. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2022; 839:156319. [PMID: 35636552 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2022.156319] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2022] [Revised: 05/23/2022] [Accepted: 05/25/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Plastic waste, with an estimated lifetime of centuries, accounts for the major share of marine litter. Each year, thousands of fish, sea birds, sea turtles, and other marine species are killed by ingesting or becoming entangled with plastic debris. Reducing marine plastic pollution is particularly challenging for developing countries owing to the wide dispersal of plastic waste disposal and scarce public cleanup resources. To costeffectively reduce marine pollution, resources should target "hotspot" areas, where large volumes of plastic litter have a high likelihood of ending up in the ocean. Using new public information, this study develops a hotspot targeting strategy for Accra and Lagos, which are major sources of marine plastic pollution in West Africa. The same global information sources can support hotspot analyses for many other coastal cities that generate marine plastic waste. The methodology combines georeferenced household survey data on plastic use, measures of seasonal variation in marine plastic pollution from satellite imagery, and a model of plastic waste transport to the ocean that uses information on topography, seasonal rainfall, drainage to rivers, and river transport to the ocean. For cleanup, the results for West Africa assign the highest locational priority to areas with heavy plastic-waste disposal along river channels or in steeply sloped locations with high rainfall runoff potential near rivers. They assign the highest temporal priority to just before the onset of the first-semester rainy season, when runoff from the first rains transports large volumes of plastic waste that have accumulated during the dry season.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Maria Sarraf
- Environment, Natural Resources and the Blue Economy in West Africa, World Bank, USA.
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Tetteh JD, Templeton MR, Cavanaugh A, Bixby H, Owusu G, Yidana SM, Moulds S, Robinson B, Baumgartner J, Annim SK, Quartey R, Mintah SE, Bawah AA, Arku RE, Ezzati M, Agyei-Mensah S. Spatial heterogeneity in drinking water sources in the Greater Accra Metropolitan Area (GAMA), Ghana. POPULATION AND ENVIRONMENT 2022; 44:46-76. [PMID: 35974746 PMCID: PMC9371963 DOI: 10.1007/s11111-022-00407-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/17/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Universal access to safe drinking water is essential to population health and well-being, as recognized in the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG). To develop targeted policies which improve urban access to improved water and ensure equity, there is the need to understand the spatial heterogeneity in drinking water sources and the factors underlying these patterns. Using the Shannon Entropy Index and the Index of Concentration at the Extremes at the enumeration area level, we analyzed census data to examine the spatial heterogeneity in drinking water sources and neighborhood income in the Greater Accra Metropolitan Area (GAMA), the largest urban agglomeration in Ghana. GAMA has been a laboratory for studying urban growth, economic security, and other concomitant socio-environmental and demographic issues in the recent past. The current study adds to this literature by telling a different story about the spatial heterogeneity of GAMA's water landscape at the enumeration area level. The findings of the study reveal considerable geographical heterogeneity and inequality in drinking water sources not evidenced in previous studies. We conclude that heterogeneity is neither good nor bad in GAMA judging by the dominance of both piped water sources and sachet water (machine-sealed 500-ml plastic bag of drinking water). The lessons from this study can be used to inform the planning of appropriate localized solutions targeted at providing piped water sources in neighborhoods lacking these services and to monitor progress in achieving universal access to improved drinking water as recognized in the SDG 6 and improving population health and well-being.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jacob Doku Tetteh
- Department of Geography and Resource Development, University of Ghana, P.O. Box LG 59, Legon-Accra, Ghana
| | - Michael R. Templeton
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | | | - Honor Bixby
- Department of Epidemiology, Biostatistics and Occupational Health, McGill University, Montreal, Canada
| | - George Owusu
- Institute of Statistical Social and Economic Research, University of Ghana, Accra, Ghana
| | | | - Simon Moulds
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Brian Robinson
- Department of Geography, McGill University, Montreal, Canada
| | - Jill Baumgartner
- Department of Epidemiology, Biostatistics and Occupational Health, McGill University, Montreal, Canada
| | | | | | | | - Ayaga Agula Bawah
- Regional Institute for Population Studies, University of Ghana, Accra, Ghana
| | - Raphael E. Arku
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, University of Massachusetts Amherst, Amherst, USA
| | - Majid Ezzati
- Regional Institute for Population Studies, University of Ghana, Accra, Ghana
- MRC Centre for Environment and Health, School of Public Health, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Samuel Agyei-Mensah
- Department of Geography and Resource Development, University of Ghana, P.O. Box LG 59, Legon-Accra, Ghana
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Angnunavuri PN, Attiogbe F, Dansie A, Mensah B. Evaluation of plastic packaged water quality using health risk indices: A case study of sachet and bottled water in Accra, Ghana. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2022; 832:155073. [PMID: 35398415 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2022.155073] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2022] [Revised: 03/27/2022] [Accepted: 04/02/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Plastic packaged water is the drinking water of choice for urban populations across Africa but its quality remains questionable in most developing countries. Six hundred (600) packages, consisting of sachet and bottled water, were sampled from two high-end companies in Accra (Ghana) and stored through their shelf lives under an average room temperature of 30 °C. The samples were tested for physicochemical quality and the presence of bacteria and phthalate esters at 2n × 3 periods, where n is the sampled batch number. The data were described and modelled with embedded Bayesian and Machine Learning algorithms in JASP0.16.0.0 and Argo-4.1.3. The results reported lower than regulated levels of electrical conductivity (163.66 μS/cm), alkalinity (39.67 mg/L), and residual chlorine (<0.01 mg/L) while the pH was generally within specification (6.5-7.7). All samples showed progressive biological contamination following the third week (sachet samples) and the sixth week (bottled water) of incubation. Initial samples, including raw water, processed bulk water and packaged water did not present detectable microbial growth. The total microbial load in sachet samples grew at 0.936 cfu/week and 1.006 cfu/week for the bottled samples although the results did not exceed 1000 cfu/L (0-976 cfu/100 mL). Modelled mean probability of infection was 1.196 × 10-4 in 67% of the samples. Raw and processed water samples did not show detectable levels of phthalate contaminants. The mean hazard index calculated on the individual hazard quotients of phthalates was 7.41 × 10-3 ± 8.20 × 10-4, suggesting lower acute risk potential. Mean integrated lifetime cancer risk (ILCR) was determined to be 1.53 × 10-3 ± 1.71 × 10-4 within a range of 2.86 × 10-4 and 7.18 × 10-3. Mean child ILCR was about 70% of adult ILCR and increased from 4.16 × 10-4 to 2.41 × 10-3 for sachet and 4.93 × 10-4 to 7.18 × 10-3 for bottled water. For adult ILCR, sachet water presented 2.86 × 10-4 to 1.65 × 10-3, and 3.38 × 10-4 to 4.93 × 10-3 for bottled water. This study confirmed the presence of phthalates and pathogenic bacteria in the samples, at-risk levels that require mitigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Prosper Naah Angnunavuri
- School of Engineering, Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of Energy and Natural Resources, Sunyani, Ghana.
| | - Francis Attiogbe
- School of Engineering, Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of Energy and Natural Resources, Sunyani, Ghana
| | - Andrew Dansie
- School of Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia; School of Chemical Engineering, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
| | - Bismark Mensah
- School of Engineering, University of Ghana, Legon, Ghana
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A Systematic Literature Review on Packaging Sustainability: Contents, Opportunities, and Guidelines. SUSTAINABILITY 2022. [DOI: 10.3390/su14116727] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
The relationship between packaging and sustainability has caused the evolution of literature towards the minimization of environmental damage. The task of packaging professionals is becoming more demanding, as they need to collect information from distinct topics to stay up to date. The aim of this research is to gather information on packaging in the sustainability context to provide a systemic view of the contents, to identify opportunities, and define guidelines for packaging design. A systematic literature review of 472 papers was performed. The first step was a bibliographic search using Pack *, Sustainab *, and eco * as keywords. Secondly, the content analysis revealed the emergence of nine categories grouped in four clusters. These categories and nineteen subthemes were considered research opportunities. Going beyond the coding units of the content analysis, we have used context units to propose (i) the gathering of technical procedures to support the design phases of sustainable packaging; and (ii) the proposition of a framework based on the life cycle stages and design phases. At last, we have provided insights and guidelines that can be useful for packaging professionals.
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11
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Moulds S, Chan ACH, Tetteh JD, Bixby H, Owusu G, Agyei-Mensah S, Ezzati M, Buytaert W, Templeton MR. Sachet water in Ghana: A spatiotemporal analysis of the recent upward trend in consumption and its relationship with changing household characteristics, 2010-2017. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0265167. [PMID: 35617289 PMCID: PMC9135223 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0265167] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2021] [Accepted: 02/24/2022] [Indexed: 12/01/2022] Open
Abstract
The consumption of packaged water in Ghana has grown significantly in recent years. By 2017, "sachet water"-machine-sealed 500ml plastic bags of drinking water-was consumed by 33% of Ghanaian households. Reliance on sachet water has previously been associated with the urban poor, yet recent evidence suggests a customer base which crosses socioeconomic lines. Here, we conduct a repeated cross-sectional analysis of three nationally representative datasets to examine the changing demography of sachet water consumers between 2010 and 2017. Our results show that over the course of the study period sachet water has become a ubiquitous source of drinking water in Ghana, with relatively wealthy households notably increasing their consumption. In 2017, the majority of sachet water drinking households had access to another improved water source. The current rate and form of urbanisation, inadequate water governance, and an emphasis on cost recovery pose significant challenges for the expansion of the piped water supply network, leading us to conclude that sachet water will likely continue to be a prominent source of drinking water in Ghana for the foreseeable future. The main challenge for policymakers is to ensure that the growing sachet water market enhances rather than undermines Ghana's efforts towards achieving universal and equitable access to clean drinking water and sanitation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simon Moulds
- School of Geography and the Environment, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
- * E-mail:
| | - Anson C. H. Chan
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Jacob D. Tetteh
- Department of Geography and Resource Development, University of Ghana, Accra, Ghana
| | - Honor Bixby
- Department of Epidemiology, Biostatistics and Occupational Health, McGill University, Montreal, Canada
| | - George Owusu
- Institute of Statistical, Social and Economic Research, University of Ghana, Accra, Ghana
| | - Samuel Agyei-Mensah
- Department of Geography and Resource Development, University of Ghana, Accra, Ghana
| | - Majid Ezzati
- MRC Centre for Environment and Health, School of Public Health, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
- Abdul Latif Jameel Institute for Disease and Emergency Analytics, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
- Regional Institute for Population Studies, University of Ghana, Accra, Ghana
| | - Wouter Buytaert
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Michael R. Templeton
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
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Adjei JK, Ofori A, Megbenu HK, Ahenguah T, Boateng AK, Adjei GA, Bentum JK, Essumang DK. Health risk and source assessment of semi-volatile phenols, p-chloroaniline and plasticizers in plastic packaged (sachet) drinking water. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2021; 797:149008. [PMID: 34303974 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2021.149008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2021] [Revised: 07/08/2021] [Accepted: 07/08/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
The presence of U.S. EPA priority organic contaminants in drinking water poses a dire health risk on consumers. Packaged drinking water such as plastic sachet drinking water has significantly gained market in both developed and developing countries, especially, its dominance in the Ghanaian market. The treatment process, packaging, and storage of the sachet drinking water contribute to the levels of genotoxic semi-volatile phenols, p-chloroaniline, and plasticizers contamination in the drinking water. The study thus sought to investigate the levels of semi-volatile phenols, p-chloroaniline, and plasticizer contaminants in sachet drinking water on the Ghanaian market and the associated health risk of exposure. The study also investigated the possible sources of the contaminants. A total of thirty (30) different brands of sachet water on the Ghanaian market were studied. The samples were extracted in replicates (n = 3) using Solid Phase Extraction (SPE) cartridges and further analysed with GC-MS (SIM mode). The source apportionment was conducted using absolute principal component analysis coupled with multiple, linear regression (APCA-MLR) and automatic linear regression (APCA-MALR) modelling. The mean total levels for the phenols, p-chloroaniline, and plasticizers were between 210.2 and 18,914.9, 11.2 and 18,871.0, and 21.2 and 69,834.1 ng/L respectively. The cumulative non-cancer risk (hazard quotient) and cancer risk upon exposure were computed to range between 2.1 × 10-3 and 1.2 and 1.5 × 10-7 and 1.3 × 10-4 respectively. About 37% of the samples had elevated cancer risk (>10-6) which may contribute to the existing incidence, cause for concern. The five sources found for the contaminants were apportioned as "environmental background (major)", "water treatment/disinfectant", "plastic/plasticizers", "storage and preservation", and "residual inter-conversion/degradation sources".
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Affiliation(s)
- Joseph Kweku Adjei
- The Environmental Research Group, Department of Chemistry, University of Cape Coast, Ghana.
| | - Albert Ofori
- The Environmental Research Group, Department of Chemistry, University of Cape Coast, Ghana
| | - Harry Kwaku Megbenu
- The Environmental Research Group, Department of Chemistry, University of Cape Coast, Ghana
| | - Thomas Ahenguah
- OneSource Laboratory Services, South San Francisco, CA, United States
| | - Alex Kissi Boateng
- School of Physical Sciences Instrumental Analysis Laboratory, Department of Laboratory Technology, University of Cape Coast, Ghana
| | - George Alimoh Adjei
- The Environmental Research Group, Department of Chemistry, University of Cape Coast, Ghana
| | - John Kwesi Bentum
- The Environmental Research Group, Department of Chemistry, University of Cape Coast, Ghana; School of Physical Sciences Instrumental Analysis Laboratory, Department of Laboratory Technology, University of Cape Coast, Ghana
| | - David Kofi Essumang
- The Environmental Research Group, Department of Chemistry, University of Cape Coast, Ghana
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Udoh A, Lawal BK, Akpan M, Labaran KS, Ndem E, Ohabunwa U, Tikare O, Ibrahim UI, Amorha K, Kpokiri E. Microbial contamination of packaged drinking water in Nigeria. Trop Med Int Health 2021; 26:1378-1400. [PMID: 34455673 DOI: 10.1111/tmi.13672] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES About 18% of urban households in Nigeria depend on packaged sachet water as the primary source of drinking water. This review assessed microbial contamination of these products with an emphasis on total coliforms and the faecal indicator bacteria (FIB) - Escherichia coli (E. coli) and thermotolerant coliforms (TTC). METHODS PubMed/Medline, African Index Medicus, AfroLib, Global Health Library, Embase and the ISI Web of Science databases were searched to identify original research published up to October 2020. The literature findings were synthesised narratively in line with the review objectives. To assess prevalence of microbial contamination, a random effects meta-analysis, was also conducted using the R metafor package in RStudio. The protocol for this review is registered on PROSPERO with reference number CRD 42019128474. RESULTS Fifty-two of 429 studies were identified for inclusion. At 53.27%, contamination prevalence was higher for total coliforms (95% CI: 39.05-66.98, I2 = 81%, p < 0.01, 42 studies) than FIB (12.38%, 95% CI: 7.92-18.85, I2 = 61%, p < 0.01, 33 studies) suggesting that treatment failure is a major contributor to the poor microbial quality reported in the included studies. Within the FIB group, the prevalence of contamination with E. coli was 13.30% (95% CI: 8.23-20.80, I2 = 65%, p < 0.01, 27 studies) versus 6.24% (95% CI: 1.12-28.06, I2 = 72%, p < 0.01, six studies) for TTCs. Other microbial contaminants reported were Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Klebsiella and Enterococcus faecalis and these showed multidrug antibiotic resistance. CONCLUSIONS The findings of this review highlight the need for improved regulatory oversight with more stringent monitoring of the microbial quality of sachet water products in Nigeria.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arit Udoh
- College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Basira Kankia Lawal
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy and Pharmacy Management, Kaduna State University, Kaduna, Nigeria
| | - Mary Akpan
- Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Uyo, Uyo, Nigeria
| | - Kamilu Sarki Labaran
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy and Pharmacy Practice, Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, Nigeria
| | - Ekpedeme Ndem
- Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Uyo, Uyo, Nigeria
| | - Unoma Ohabunwa
- Department of Pharmacy, Federal Medical Centre, Abuja, Nigeria
| | | | - Umar Idris Ibrahim
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy and Pharmacy Practice, Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, Nigeria.,Department of Clinical Pharmacy and Pharmacy Practice, Bayero University, Kano, Nigeria
| | - Kosisochi Amorha
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy and Pharmacy Management, University of Nigeria, Nsukka, Nigeria
| | - Eneyi Kpokiri
- Faculty of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
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Sachet water quality and Vendors’ practices in Damongo, northern Ghana during the emergence of SARS-CoV-2 using multivariate statistics, water quality and pollution indices, and panel assessment. ENVIRONMENTAL CHALLENGES 2021; 4. [PMID: 37522148 PMCID: PMC9767321 DOI: 10.1016/j.envc.2021.100164] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/06/2023]
Abstract
The emergence of the SARS-CoV-2 has affected several production services including the water production and delivery processes. This study considered sachet water quality during the advent of the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic using multivariate statistics and Water Quality Index, Water Pollution Index and, hygienic and sanitation practices of sixty-two (62) sachet water vendors using a panel assessment approach. The findings showed that vendors did not adhere to proper hygienic practices as ninety-four (94%) of them did not have health clearance, ninety (90%) did not frequently wash their receptacles for selling daily, and most of them stored and sold in unhygienic environments. Majority of the producers violated Food and Drugs Authority Regulations. The Empirical Orthogonal Function analysis showed that total iron, Total Heterotrophic Bacteria, Salmonella, Cl−, E. coli, and fecal and total coliforms were the controlling elements in the water. All the brands were below threshold limits based on the physical water assessment. However, enteric bacteria were observed in all the brands. Water Quality and Water Pollution Indices (WQI and WPI) described all the sachet water brands (vendors and production sites) as excellent for drinking. The WQI computations for samples from the production and vending sites respectively ranged from 0.12 to 0.36 and 0.27–0.42 whereas WPI presented 0.22–0.31 and 0.23–0.32. Comparatively, samples from vendors had elevated elemental concentrations and loads. This suggests that besides sachet water contamination during production and transportation, vendors significantly impacted the quality of sachet water. Sensitization on proper hygienic practices for sachet water production and vending and routine assessment of the quality of sachet water produced or sold is recommended.
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Akindele EO, Alimba CG. Plastic pollution threat in Africa: current status and implications for aquatic ecosystem health. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2021; 28:7636-7651. [PMID: 33398755 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-020-11736-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2020] [Accepted: 11/17/2020] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Rapid population growth and poor waste management practice are among the main drivers of plastic pollution in modern times, thus making Africa a hotspot for plastic pollution both now and in the future. This study is a review of plastic pollution reports from the African aquatic environment with regard to causes, current status, toxicological implications and implications for ecosystem services. A total of 59 plastic pollution studies from 1987 to September 2020 were reviewed. They comprised 15 from North Africa (NA) (Algeria, Egypt, Morocco and Tunisia), six from East Africa (EA) (Ethiopia, Kenya, Tanzania and Uganda), 13 from West Africa (WA) (Ghana, Guinea-Bissau, Mauritania and Nigeria), and 25 studies from Southern Africa (SA) (South Africa). This shows that plastic pollution studies in Africa, according to the sub-regions, are in the order: SA > NA > WA > EA. High human population in the basins of African large aquatic systems is identified as the greatest driver enhancing plastic surge in the aquatic environment. The occurrence of plastics was mostly reported in the estuarine/marine environment (42 studies) compared to the freshwater environment (only 17 studies). Plastics have also been reported in the three compartments of the aquatic environment: water column, benthic sediment and animals. Zooplankton, annelids, molluscs, insects, fishes and birds were reported as bioindicators of plastic ingestion in the inland and coastal waters of Africa. Polyethylene, polyethylene terephthalate (polyester) and polypropylene were the common plastic polymers observed in the African aquatic environment. In situ toxicological implications of the ingested plastic polymers were not reported in any of the studies. However, reports from laboratory-controlled experiments showed that these polymers are deleterious to aquatic animal health. More research efforts need to delineate the plastic pollution status of the East, West and North of Africa. Furthermore, such studies are required to identify the plastic polymers and in situ ecotoxicological impacts of plastics on both animal and human health.
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Clayton CA, Walker TR, Bezerra JC, Adam I. Policy responses to reduce single-use plastic marine pollution in the Caribbean. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2021. [PMID: 33213855 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpol.2020.103928] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/12/2023]
Abstract
Caribbean economies depend heavily on a healthy marine ecosystem, but the region includes ten of the top global marine polluters per capita. Regional marine pollution is driven by illegal plastic waste dumping due to poor waste management systems with limited recycling, and weak enforcement. Governments recognize the impacts of marine debris on their social and economic well-being and have responded with policies to curb plastic pollution. Most focus on bans of single-use plastic and polystyrene, which comprises ~80% of Caribbean marine litter. However, there is little comparative analysis of policy responses to determine their efficacy. This paper reviews current policies in 13 English-speaking Caribbean countries, exploring tools used and process of implementation. Eleven have introduced legislative policies, with seven including fines and penalties for non-compliance. All successful policies involve multiple tools, including primary stakeholder engagement, sufficient lead time between policy announcement and implementation, and extensive public education campaigns.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Tony R Walker
- School for Resource and Environmental Studies, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Canada.
| | | | - Issahaku Adam
- Department of Hospitality and Tourism Management, University of Cape Coast, Cape Coast, Ghana.
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Adam Mohamed S, Nyerere A, Sang WK, Ngayo M. Bottled water brands are contaminated with multidrug resistant bacteria in Nairobi, Kenya. F1000Res 2020; 9:1337. [PMID: 33796276 PMCID: PMC7970434 DOI: 10.12688/f1000research.24031.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/26/2021] [Indexed: 11/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: The demand for drinking water has necessitated the proliferation of bottled water companies in Kenya. This study evaluated if retailed bottled water in Nairobi Kenya complies with both local and international reference criteria. Methods: A total of 42 different water brands (25 approved by Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) and 17 banned brands) were analyzed for both physicochemical and bacteriological quality. The spread plate method was used to obtain the total plate count of bacteria, while the membrane filter method was used to obtain total coliform count (TCC) and fecal coliform count (FCC). Structured interviews were used to gather company-related information. Results: Overall, 16% of KRA-approved and 35.3% of banned bottled water were contaminated with heterotrophic bacteria. Of the approved water brands, 4% were positive for total coliforms, compared with 17% of the banned brands. Similarly, 4% and 17% approved and banned water brands were positive for fecal coliforms, respectively. Escherichia coli (19.1%), Pseudomonas spp. (9.5%) and Klebsiella spp. (4.8%) were the most common bacterial types isolated from all water brands, most of which exhibited multidrug resistance. In multivariable analysis, water companies that cleaned pipework and bottles using chlorine-based disinfectants (OR 0.08, 95% CI 0.01 to 0.8), those that had food safety programs (OR 0.1, 95% CI 0.019 to 0.9), had standard operating procedures (SOP) for water sourcing (OR 0.1, 95% CI 0.012 to 0.9) and SOP for contamination protection (OR 0.1, 95% CI 0.02 to 0.9) remained independently associated with bottled water brands exceeding WHO TCC limits. Conclusions: A number of bottled water brands were contaminated with one or more types of indicator bacteria, some of which were multidrug-resistant. Water bottling companies' processes contribute to contamination. Rigorous regulation and monitoring will improve water quality and safety.
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Affiliation(s)
- Safia Adam Mohamed
- Institute of Tropical Medicine and Infectious Diseases, Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Andrew Nyerere
- Institute of Tropical Medicine and Infectious Diseases, Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Willie Kipkemboi Sang
- Centre for Microbiology Research, Kenya Medical Research Institute, Nairobi, Kenya, Kenya
| | - Musa Ngayo
- Centre for Microbiology Research, Kenya Medical Research Institute, Nairobi, Kenya, Kenya
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Adam Mohamed S, Nyerere A, Sang WK, Ngayo M. Bottled water brands are contaminated with multidrug resistant bacteria in Nairobi, Kenya. F1000Res 2020; 9:1337. [PMID: 33796276 PMCID: PMC7970434 DOI: 10.12688/f1000research.24031.2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/26/2021] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: The demand for drinking water has necessitated the proliferation of bottled water companies in Kenya. This study evaluated if retailed bottled water in Nairobi Kenya complies with both local and international reference criteria. Methods: A total of 42 different water brands (25 approved by Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) and 17 banned brands) were analyzed for both physicochemical and bacteriological quality. The spread plate method was used to obtain the total plate count of bacteria, while the membrane filter method was used to obtain total coliform count (TCC) and fecal coliform count (FCC). Structured interviews were used to gather company-related information. Results: Overall, 16% of KRA-approved and 35.3% of banned bottled water were contaminated with heterotrophic bacteria. Of the approved water brands, 4% were positive for total coliforms, compared with 17% of the banned brands. Similarly, 4% and 17% approved and banned water brands were positive for fecal coliforms, respectively.
Escherichia coli (19.1%),
Pseudomonas spp. (9.5%) and
Klebsiella spp. (4.8%) were the most common bacterial types isolated from all water brands, most of which exhibited multidrug resistance. In multivariable analysis, water companies that cleaned pipework and bottles using chlorine-based disinfectants (OR 0.08, 95% CI 0.01 to 0.8), those that had food safety programs (OR 0.1, 95% CI 0.019 to 0.9), had standard operating procedures (SOP) for water sourcing (OR 0.1, 95% CI 0.012 to 0.9) and SOP for contamination protection (OR 0.1, 95% CI 0.02 to 0.9) remained independently associated with bottled water brands exceeding WHO TCC limits. Conclusions: A number of bottled water brands were contaminated with one or more types of indicator bacteria, some of which were multidrug-resistant. Water bottling companies’ processes contribute to contamination. Rigorous regulation and monitoring will improve water quality and safety.
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Affiliation(s)
- Safia Adam Mohamed
- Institute of Tropical Medicine and Infectious Diseases, Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Andrew Nyerere
- Institute of Tropical Medicine and Infectious Diseases, Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Willie Kipkemboi Sang
- Centre for Microbiology Research, Kenya Medical Research Institute, Nairobi, Kenya, Kenya
| | - Musa Ngayo
- Centre for Microbiology Research, Kenya Medical Research Institute, Nairobi, Kenya, Kenya
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19
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Adika SA, Mahu E, Crane R, Marchant R, Montford J, Folorunsho R, Gordon C. Microplastic ingestion by pelagic and demersal fish species from the Eastern Central Atlantic Ocean, off the Coast of Ghana. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2020; 153:110998. [PMID: 32275547 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2020.110998] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2019] [Revised: 02/17/2020] [Accepted: 02/17/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
We present data on the occurrence of microplastics in fish from the Guinea current region off Ghana's Coast. Frequency of occurrence of microplastics in the fish species followed the order: Sardinella maderensis (41%) > Dentex angolensis > (33%) > Sardinella aurita (26%). Mean numbers of microplastics ingested were 40.0 ± 3.8, 32.0 ± 2.7 and 25.7 ± 1.6 for S. maderensis, D. angolensis and S. aurita respectively. Industrially produced pellets were the most dominant (31%) microplastic type followed by microbeads (29%), burnt film plastics (22%) and unidentified fragments (9%). Microfibers (2%), threads (2%) and foams (<0.1%) were the least occurring microplastics in the fish species. Condition factors estimated for D. angolensis and S. aurita were >1 and below 1 for S. maderensis. The findings of the study show the common occurrence of microplastics in fish stocks and pave the way for future studies on microplastics in this Region.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Edem Mahu
- Department of Marine and Fisheries Sciences, University of Ghana, Ghana.
| | - Richard Crane
- College of Engineering, Mathematics and Physical Sciences, University of Exeter, United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland
| | - Rob Marchant
- York Institute of Tropical Ecosystems, Department of Environment and Geography, University of York, York YO10 5NG, North Yorkshire, United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland
| | - Judith Montford
- Scottish Environmental Protection Agency, United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland
| | | | - Christopher Gordon
- Institute of Environment and Sanitation Studies, University of Ghana, Ghana
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21
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Kangmennaang J, Bisung E, Elliott SJ. 'We Are Drinking Diseases': Perception of Water Insecurity and Emotional Distress in Urban Slums in Accra, Ghana. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2020; 17:ijerph17030890. [PMID: 32023912 PMCID: PMC7038156 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph17030890] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2019] [Revised: 01/08/2020] [Accepted: 01/23/2020] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
Water security is critical to the health and well-being of people around the world, especially among populations experiencing water stresses and rapid urbanization in low- to middle-income countries (LMICs). Recent research suggests water insecurity is associated with negative mental health outcomes. Despite global improvement in access to safe water across the world, the World Health Organization (WHO) reports that access to safe water in urban areas has not changed significantly or has stagnated in certain countries. In most African cities, entrepreneurial water vendors have stepped up to fill supply gaps in the formal delivery system by selling vended water. As part of a larger research program that aims to assess and analyze public perceptions around vended water, this paper explores the links connecting water insecurity and emotional distress among urban slum dwellers who mostly use vended water in Accra, Ghana. We used a parallel mixed-methods approach. Our quantitative results show that water-insecure households (OR = 2.23, p = 0.01) were more likely to report emotional distresses compared to water-secure households. However, households with improved sanitation (OR = 0.28, p = 0.01) and those willing to participate for improved water and sanitation (OR = 0.28, p = 0.01) were less likely to report emotional distress. Our qualitative results offered support for the quantitative results, as participants not only hold various perceptions regarding the safety and quality of vended water but expressed emotional distresses such as fear of contamination, discomfort, worry over arbitrary change in prices, and anxiety. The implications of the results for policy and practice, specifically to ensuring access to safe water, are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joseph Kangmennaang
- Department of Geography and Earth Sciences, University of North Carolina at Charlotte, Charlotte, North Carolina, NC 28223, USA
- Correspondence:
| | - Elijah Bisung
- School of Kinesiology and Health Studies, SKHS Building 28 Division Street, Queen’s University, Kingston, ON K7L 3N6, Canada;
| | - Susan J. Elliott
- Department of Geography and Environmental Management, University of Waterloo, 200 University Avenue West Waterloo, ON N2L 3G1, Canada;
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22
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Water Brokers: Exploring Urban Water Governance through the Practices of Tanker Water Supply in Accra. WATER 2019. [DOI: 10.3390/w11091919] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Accra, the capital city of Ghana, is characterized by limited networked supply, heterogeneous water providers, and various forms of provision. In this paper, we explore how the people delivering water through water tankers shape the distribution of water across the city. Drawing on empirical descriptions of water sourcing and distribution by truck drivers, we show that who gets what water at what price is shaped by the ability of tanker drivers to act as brokers, piecing together various social and material arrangements and resorting to different rationalities and expertise. We analyze how state actors deal with tanker supply seeking to reconcile their mandates with the realities of water supply. Analyzing urban water supply through the practices of water distribution, we show the messy and open-ended character of water governance processes. A practice-based approach makes the complex interrelations between different water providers across the city visible, and underscores the role of individual and collective identities, emotions, moral norms, and unequal interdependencies between actors in shaping urban water distributions.
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Kumi-Larbi A, Yunana D, Kamsouloum P, Webster M, Wilson DC, Cheeseman C. Recycling waste plastics in developing countries: Use of low-density polyethylene water sachets to form plastic bonded sand blocks. WASTE MANAGEMENT (NEW YORK, N.Y.) 2018; 80:112-118. [PMID: 30454990 DOI: 10.1016/j.wasman.2018.09.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2018] [Revised: 08/14/2018] [Accepted: 09/02/2018] [Indexed: 05/13/2023]
Abstract
In many developing countries low-density polyethylene (LDPE) sheets, bags and water sachets are a major waste problem because local collection and recycling systems do not exist. As a result, LDPE has no value and is dumped causing aesthetic, environmental and public health issues. A relatively simple technology has been developed in the Cameroon that produces LDPE-bonded sand blocks and pavers. The application of this technology is an example of a community-driven waste management initiative that has potential to impact on the global plastics waste crisis because it can transform waste LDPE and other readily available types of plastics into a valuable local resource. In this research, waste LDPE water sachets have been melted and mixed with sand to form LDPE-bonded sand blocks. The effect of sand particle size and sand to plastic ratio on density, the compressive strength and water adsorption are reported. Optimum samples have been further characterised for flexural strength and thermal conductivity. LDPE-bonded sand is a strong, tough material with compressive strengths up to ∼27 MPa when produced under optimum processing conditions. The density and compressive strength increase as the particle size of the sand decreases. The potential for using this simple technology and the materials it produces to transform LDPE plastic waste management in developing countries is discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexander Kumi-Larbi
- Environmental and Water Resource Engineering Section, Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Imperial College London, SW7 2AZ, UK
| | - Danladi Yunana
- Environmental and Water Resource Engineering Section, Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Imperial College London, SW7 2AZ, UK
| | | | | | - David C Wilson
- Environmental and Water Resource Engineering Section, Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Imperial College London, SW7 2AZ, UK
| | - Christopher Cheeseman
- Environmental and Water Resource Engineering Section, Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Imperial College London, SW7 2AZ, UK.
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Quartey ET, Darkwah SA. A Review of the Suitability of Using Eco-Efficiency Principles in Managing Environmental Impacts of the Packaged Water Industry in Ghana. ACTA UNIVERSITATIS AGRICULTURAE ET SILVICULTURAE MENDELIANAE BRUNENSIS 2018. [DOI: 10.11118/actaun201866040979] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
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Dzodzomenyo M, Fink G, Dotse-Gborgbortsi W, Wardrop N, Aryeetey G, Coleman N, Hill A, Wright J. Sachet water quality and product registration: a cross-sectional study in Accra, Ghana. JOURNAL OF WATER AND HEALTH 2018; 16:646-656. [PMID: 30067245 DOI: 10.2166/wh.2018.055] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
The study's objectives were to assess the extent to which packaged water producers follow product registration procedures and to assess the relationship between product registration and drinking water quality in Accra, Ghana. Following preliminary analysis of a national water quality survey, 118 packaged sachet water samples were collected by sampling all brands sold by 66 vendors. A sample of vendors was selected from two high-income and two low-income areas of Accra, Ghana. Sachet packaging and labelling details were recorded and compared to a regulatory database to assess product registration. All samples were weighed and tested for faecal indicator bacteria and selected physico-chemical parameters. Product registration numbers and brand names could be matched to regulatory records for 77 of 118 sachets (65.2%). All samples tested were compliant with national water quality standards for faecal indicator bacteria and nitrate. Brand registration was not associated with any of the quality indicators considered. The results of this study suggest that while a substantial proportion of sachet water is sold without formal product registration, the microbial quality of the unlicensed water is consistently high in Accra, Ghana. Further examination of regulatory enforcement and monitoring will be needed to ensure sustained high water quality over time.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Dzodzomenyo
- School of Public Health, University of Ghana, P.O. Box LG13, Legon, Accra, Ghana
| | - G Fink
- Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute and University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - W Dotse-Gborgbortsi
- School of Public Health, University of Ghana, P.O. Box LG13, Legon, Accra, Ghana
| | - N Wardrop
- Geography and Environment, University of Southampton, Highfield, Southampton SO17 1BJ, UK E-mail:
| | - G Aryeetey
- School of Public Health, University of Ghana, P.O. Box LG13, Legon, Accra, Ghana
| | - N Coleman
- School of Public Health, University of Ghana, P.O. Box LG13, Legon, Accra, Ghana
| | - A Hill
- Social Sciences, University of Southampton, Highfield, Southampton SO17 1BJ, UK
| | - J Wright
- Geography and Environment, University of Southampton, Highfield, Southampton SO17 1BJ, UK E-mail:
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Robb K, Null C, Teunis P, Yakubu H, Armah G, Moe CL. Assessment of Fecal Exposure Pathways in Low-Income Urban Neighborhoods in Accra, Ghana: Rationale, Design, Methods, and Key Findings of the SaniPath Study. Am J Trop Med Hyg 2017; 97:1020-1032. [PMID: 28722599 PMCID: PMC5637580 DOI: 10.4269/ajtmh.16-0508] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2016] [Accepted: 04/03/2017] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Rapid urbanization has contributed to an urban sanitation crisis in low-income countries. Residents in low-income, urban neighborhoods often have poor sanitation infrastructure and services and may experience frequent exposure to fecal contamination through a range of pathways. There are little data to prioritize strategies to decrease exposure to fecal contamination in these complex and highly contaminated environments, and public health priorities are rarely considered when planning urban sanitation investments. The SaniPath Study addresses this need by characterizing pathways of exposure to fecal contamination. Over a 16 month period, an in-depth, interdisciplinary exposure assessment was conducted in both public and private domains of four neighborhoods in Accra, Ghana. Microbiological analyses of environmental samples and behavioral data collection techniques were used to quantify fecal contamination in the environment and characterize the behaviors of adults and children associated with exposure to fecal contamination. Environmental samples (n = 1,855) were collected and analyzed for fecal indicators and enteric pathogens. A household survey with 800 respondents and over 500 hours of structured observation of young children were conducted. Approximately 25% of environmental samples were collected in conjunction with structured observations (n = 441 samples). The results of the study highlight widespread and often high levels of fecal contamination in both public and private domains and the food supply. The dominant fecal exposure pathway for young children in the household was through consumption of uncooked produce. The SaniPath Study provides critical information on exposure to fecal contamination in low-income, urban environments and ultimately can inform investments and policies to reduce these public health risks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katharine Robb
- Center for Global Safe Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene, Hubert Department of Global Health, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Clair Null
- Center for Global Safe Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene, Hubert Department of Global Health, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia
- Mathematica Policy Research, Washington, District of Columbia
| | - Peter Teunis
- Center for Global Safe Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene, Hubert Department of Global Health, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia
- Centre for Zoonoses and Environmental Microbiology, Centre for Infectious Disease Control, RIVM, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Habib Yakubu
- Center for Global Safe Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene, Hubert Department of Global Health, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - George Armah
- The Noguchi Memorial Institute for Medical Research of the University of Ghana, Accra, Ghana
| | - Christine L. Moe
- Center for Global Safe Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene, Hubert Department of Global Health, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia
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Vedachalam S, MacDonald LH, Omoluabi E, OlaOlorun F, Otupiri E, Schwab KJ. The role of packaged water in meeting global targets on improved water access. JOURNAL OF WATER, SANITATION, AND HYGIENE FOR DEVELOPMENT : A JOURNAL OF THE INTERNATIONAL WATER ASSOCIATION 2017; 7:369-377. [PMID: 33384863 PMCID: PMC7734372 DOI: 10.2166/washdev.2017.155] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2016] [Accepted: 02/24/2017] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Packaged water (as either refill, bottled, or sachet water) has become an important element of water security in many low- and middle-income countries, owing to poor reliability and lack of piped water infrastructure. However, over time and across countries, the Demographic and Health Surveys monitoring program has inconsistently classified packaged water components as either improved or unimproved. Using data collected as part of the Performance Monitoring and Accountability 2020 (PMA2020) surveys on water options in nine study geographies across eight countries, we identified five geographies where packaged water constituted one of several options for 5% or more of users. In this study, four scenarios were designed in which packaged water components were variously classified as either improved or unimproved. Unimproved water use was highest in scenarios where sachet or refill water was classified as an unimproved source. Across the four scenarios, the difference in the use of unimproved water as the main option was highest (65%) in Nigeria (Lagos). That difference increased to 78% when considering all regular options. The development of these scenarios highlights the importance of classifying a source as improved or unimproved in the overall metric that indicates progress at national and international levels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sridhar Vedachalam
- Johns Hopkins Water Institute, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, 615 N Wolfe St, E6638, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| | - Luke H MacDonald
- Johns Hopkins Water Institute, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, 615 N Wolfe St, E6638, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| | - Elizabeth Omoluabi
- Center for Research, Evaluation Resources and Development, Ife, Nigeria And University of Western Cape, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Funmilola OlaOlorun
- Department of Community Medicine, College of Medicine, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Nigeria
| | - Easmon Otupiri
- School of Public Health, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
| | - Kellogg J Schwab
- Johns Hopkins Water Institute, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, 615 N Wolfe St, E6638, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
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Geographic Distribution of Registered Packaged Water Production in Ghana: Implications for Piped Supplies, Groundwater Management and Product Transportation. WATER 2017. [DOI: 10.3390/w9020142] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
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Wright J, Dzodzomenyo M, Fink G, Wardrop NA, Aryeetey GC, Adanu RM, Hill AG. Subsidized Sachet Water to Reduce Diarrheal Disease in Young Children: A Feasibility Study in Accra, Ghana. Am J Trop Med Hyg 2016; 95:239-246. [PMID: 27215298 PMCID: PMC4944696 DOI: 10.4269/ajtmh.15-0854] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2015] [Accepted: 03/20/2016] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Use of drinking water sold in plastic bags (sachet water) is growing rapidly in west Africa. The impact on water consumption and child health remains unclear, and a debate on the taxation and regulation of sachet water is ongoing. This study assessed the feasibility of providing subsidized sachet water to low-income urban households in Accra and measured the resultant changes in water consumption. A total of 86 children, 6–36 months of age in neighborhoods lacking indoor piped water, were randomized to three study arms. The control group received education about diarrhea. The second arm received vouchers for 15 L/week/child of free water sachets (value: $0.63/week) plus education. The third arm received vouchers for the same water sachet volume at half price plus education. Water consumption was measured at baseline and followed for 4 months thereafter. At baseline, 66 of 81 children (82%) drank only sachet water. When given one voucher/child/week, households redeemed an average 0.94 vouchers/week/child in the free-sachet-voucher arm and 0.82 vouchers/week/child in the half-price arm. No change in water consumption was observed in the half-price arm, although the study was not powered to detect such differences. In the free-sachet-voucher arm, estimated sachet water consumption increased by 0.27 L/child/day (P = 0.03). The increase in sachet water consumption by children in the free-sachet-voucher arm shows that provision of fully subsidized water sachets might improve the quality of drinking water consumed by children. Further research is needed to quantify this and any related child health impacts.
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Affiliation(s)
- James Wright
- Geography and Environment, University of Southampton, Southampton, United Kingdom
| | | | - Günther Fink
- Department of Global Health and Population, School of Public Health, Harvard University, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Nicola A Wardrop
- Geography and Environment, University of Southampton, Southampton, United Kingdom
| | | | - Richard M Adanu
- Ghana School of Public Health, University of Ghana, Legon, Ghana
| | - Allan G Hill
- Social Sciences, University of Southampton, Southampton, United Kingdom.,Department of Global Health and Population, School of Public Health, Harvard University, Boston, Massachusetts
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Yu W, Wardrop NA, Bain RES, Lin Y, Zhang C, Wright JA. A Global Perspective on Drinking-Water and Sanitation Classification: An Evaluation of Census Content. PLoS One 2016; 11:e0151645. [PMID: 26986472 PMCID: PMC4795766 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0151645] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2015] [Accepted: 03/02/2016] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Following the recent expiry of the United Nations’ 2015 Millennium Development Goals (MDGs), new international development agenda covering 2030 water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH) targets have been proposed, which imply new demands on data sources for monitoring relevant progress. This study evaluates drinking-water and sanitation classification systems from national census questionnaire content, based upon the most recent international policy changes, to examine national population census’s ability to capture drinking-water and sanitation availability, safety, accessibility, and sustainability. In total, 247 censuses from 83 low income and lower-middle income countries were assessed using a scoring system, intended to assess harmonised water supply and sanitation classification systems for each census relative to the typology needed to monitor the proposed post-2015 indicators of WASH targets. The results signal a lack of international harmonisation and standardisation in census categorisation systems, especially concerning safety, accessibility, and sustainability of services in current census content. This suggests further refinements and harmonisation of future census content may be necessary to reflect ambitions for post-2015 monitoring.
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Affiliation(s)
- Weiyu Yu
- Geography and Environment, University of Southampton, Southampton, Hampshire, United Kingdom
- * E-mail: (WY); (JAW)
| | - Nicola A. Wardrop
- Geography and Environment, University of Southampton, Southampton, Hampshire, United Kingdom
| | - Robert E. S. Bain
- United Nations Children's Fund, New York City, NY, United States of America
| | - Yanzhao Lin
- Resource Environment and Earth Science, Yunnan University, Kunming City, Yunnan Province, China
| | - Ce Zhang
- Geography and Environment, University of Southampton, Southampton, Hampshire, United Kingdom
| | - Jim A. Wright
- Geography and Environment, University of Southampton, Southampton, Hampshire, United Kingdom
- * E-mail: (WY); (JAW)
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Wright J, Dzodzomenyo M, Wardrop NA, Johnston R, Hill A, Aryeetey G, Adanu R. Effects of Sachet Water Consumption on Exposure to Microbe-Contaminated Drinking Water: Household Survey Evidence from Ghana. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2016; 13:ijerph13030303. [PMID: 27005650 PMCID: PMC4808966 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph13030303] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2015] [Revised: 02/15/2016] [Accepted: 02/29/2016] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
There remain few nationally representative studies of drinking water quality at the point of consumption in developing countries. This study aimed to examine factors associated with E. coli contamination in Ghana. It drew on a nationally representative household survey, the 2012-2013 Living Standards Survey 6, which incorporated a novel water quality module. E. coli contamination in 3096 point-of-consumption samples was examined using multinomial regression. Surface water use was the strongest risk factor for high E. coli contamination (relative risk ratio (RRR) = 32.3, p < 0.001), whilst packaged (sachet or bottled) water use had the greatest protective effect (RRR = 0.06, p < 0.001), compared to water piped to premises. E. coli contamination followed plausible patterns with digit preference (tendency to report values ending in zero) in bacteria counts. The analysis suggests packaged drinking water use provides some protection against point-of-consumption E. coli contamination and may therefore benefit public health. It also suggests viable water quality data can be collected alongside household surveys, but field protocols require further revision.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jim Wright
- Geography and Environment, University of Southampton, Southampton SO17 1BJ, UK.
| | - Mawuli Dzodzomenyo
- Ghana School of Public Health, University of Ghana, Accra PO Box LG13, Ghana.
| | - Nicola A Wardrop
- Geography and Environment, University of Southampton, Southampton SO17 1BJ, UK.
| | - Richard Johnston
- Joint Monitoring Programme for Water Supply and Sanitation (JMP), Department of Public Health, Environmental and Social Determinants of Health (PHE), World Health Organization, Geneva 1211 Switzerland.
| | - Allan Hill
- Social Sciences, University of Southampton, Southampton SO17 1BJ, UK.
| | - Genevieve Aryeetey
- Ghana School of Public Health, University of Ghana, Accra PO Box LG13, Ghana.
| | - Richard Adanu
- Ghana School of Public Health, University of Ghana, Accra PO Box LG13, Ghana.
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Bacteriological and physical quality of locally packaged drinking water in Kampala, Uganda. JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2015; 2015:942928. [PMID: 26508915 PMCID: PMC4609860 DOI: 10.1155/2015/942928] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2015] [Accepted: 09/17/2015] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To assess the bacteriological and physical quality of locally packaged drinking water sold for public consumption. METHODS This was cross-sectional study where a total of 60 samples of bottled water from 10 brands and 30 samples of sachet water from 15 brands purchased randomly were analyzed for bacteriological contamination (total coliform and faecal coliform per 100 mL) using membrane filtrate method and reported in terms of cfu/100 mL. RESULTS Both bottled water and sachet water were not contaminated with faecal coliform. Majority (70%, 21/30) of the sachet water analyzed exceeded acceptable limits of 0 total coliforms per 100 mL set by WHO and the national drinking water standards. The physical quality (turbidity and pH) of all the packaged water brands analyzed was within the acceptable limits. There was statistically significant difference between the median count of total coliform in both sachet water and bottled water brands (U(24) = 37.0, p = 0.027). CONCLUSION Both bottled water and sachet water were not contaminated with faecal coliforms; majority of sachet water was contaminated with total coliform above acceptable limits. Government and other stakeholders should consider intensifying surveillance activities and enforcing strict hygienic measures in this rapidly expanding industry to improve packaged water quality.
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Williams AR, Bain RES, Fisher MB, Cronk R, Kelly ER, Bartram J. A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Fecal Contamination and Inadequate Treatment of Packaged Water. PLoS One 2015; 10:e0140899. [PMID: 26505745 PMCID: PMC4624706 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0140899] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2015] [Accepted: 10/01/2015] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Packaged water products provide an increasingly important source of water for consumption. However, recent studies raise concerns over their safety. OBJECTIVES To assess the microbial safety of packaged water, examine differences between regions, country incomes, packaged water types, and compare packaged water with other water sources. METHODS We performed a systematic review and meta-analysis. Articles published in English, French, Portuguese, Spanish and Turkish, with no date restrictions were identified from online databases and two previous reviews. Studies published before April 2014 that assessed packaged water for the presence of Escherichia coli, thermotolerant or total coliforms were included provided they tested at least ten samples or brands. RESULTS A total of 170 studies were included in the review. The majority of studies did not detect fecal indicator bacteria in packaged water (78/141). Compared to packaged water from upper-middle and high-income countries, packaged water from low and lower-middle-income countries was 4.6 (95% CI: 2.6-8.1) and 13.6 (95% CI: 6.9-26.7) times more likely to contain fecal indicator bacteria and total coliforms, respectively. Compared to all other packaged water types, water from small bottles was less likely to be contaminated with fecal indicator bacteria (OR = 0.32, 95%CI: 0.17-0.58) and total coliforms (OR = 0.10, 95%CI: 0.05, 0.22). Packaged water was less likely to contain fecal indicator bacteria (OR = 0.35, 95%CI: 0.20, 0.62) compared to other water sources used for consumption. CONCLUSIONS Policymakers and regulators should recognize the potential benefits of packaged water in providing safer water for consumption at and away from home, especially for those who are otherwise unlikely to gain access to a reliable, safe water supply in the near future. To improve the quality of packaged water products they should be integrated into regulatory and monitoring frameworks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ashley R. Williams
- The Water Institute, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, United States of America
| | - Robert E. S. Bain
- The Water Institute, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, United States of America
- UNICEF, New York, NY, United States of America
| | - Michael B. Fisher
- The Water Institute, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, United States of America
| | - Ryan Cronk
- The Water Institute, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, United States of America
| | - Emma R. Kelly
- The Water Institute, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, United States of America
| | - Jamie Bartram
- The Water Institute, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, United States of America
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Stoler J, Ahmed H, Asantewa Frimpong L, Bello M. Presence of Pseudomonas aeruginosa in coliform-free sachet drinking water in Ghana. Food Control 2015. [DOI: 10.1016/j.foodcont.2015.02.038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
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Fisher MB, Williams AR, Jalloh MF, Saquee G, Bain RES, Bartram JK. Microbiological and Chemical Quality of Packaged Sachet Water and Household Stored Drinking Water in Freetown, Sierra Leone. PLoS One 2015; 10:e0131772. [PMID: 26162082 PMCID: PMC4498897 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0131772] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2014] [Accepted: 06/08/2015] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Packaged drinking water (PW) sold in bottles and plastic bags/sachets is widely consumed in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), and many urban users in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) rely on packaged sachet water (PSW) as their primary source of water for consumption. However, few rigorous studies have investigated PSW quality in SSA, and none have compared PSW to stored household water for consumption (HWC). A clearer understanding of PSW quality in the context of alternative sources is needed to inform policy and regulation. As elsewhere in SSA, PSW is widely consumed in Sierra Leone, but government oversight is nearly nonexistent. This study examined the microbiological and chemical quality of a representative sample of PSW products in Freetown, Sierra Leone at packaged water manufacturing facilities (PWMFs) and at points of sale (POSs). Samples of HWC were also analyzed for comparison. The study did not find evidence of serious chemical contamination among the parameters studied. However, 19% of 45 PSW products sampled at the PWMF contained detectable Escherichia coli (EC), although only two samples exceeded 10 CFU/100 mL. Concentrations of total coliforms (TC) in PSW (but not EC) increased along the supply chain. Samples of HWC from 60 households in Freetown were significantly more likely to contain EC and TC than PSW at the point of production (p<0.01), and had significantly higher concentrations of both bacterial indicators (p<0.01). These results highlight the need for additional PSW regulation and surveillance, while demonstrating the need to prioritize the safety of HWC. At present, PSW may be the least unsafe option for many households.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael B. Fisher
- The Water Institute at UNC, Department of Environmental Sciences and Engineering, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, United States of America
- * E-mail: (MBF); (JKB)
| | - Ashley R. Williams
- The Water Institute at UNC, Department of Environmental Sciences and Engineering, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, United States of America
| | | | | | - Robert E. S. Bain
- The Water Institute at UNC, Department of Environmental Sciences and Engineering, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, United States of America
| | - Jamie K. Bartram
- The Water Institute at UNC, Department of Environmental Sciences and Engineering, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, United States of America
- * E-mail: (MBF); (JKB)
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Omole DO, Ndambuki JM, Balogun K. Consumption of sachet water in Nigeria: quality, public health and economic perspectives. AFRICAN JOURNAL OF SCIENCE TECHNOLOGY INNOVATION & DEVELOPMENT 2015. [DOI: 10.1080/20421338.2014.979654] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
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Stoler J, Tutu RA, Ahmed H, Frimpong LA, Bello M. Sachet water quality and brand reputation in two low-income urban communities in greater Accra, Ghana. Am J Trop Med Hyg 2013; 90:272-8. [PMID: 24379244 DOI: 10.4269/ajtmh.13-0461] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022] Open
Abstract
Sachet water has become an important primary source of drinking water in western Africa, but little is known about bacteriologic quality and improvements to quality control given the recent, rapid evolution of this industry. This report examines basic bacteriologic indicators for 60 sachet water samples from two very low-income communities in Accra, Ghana, and explores the relationship between local perceptions of brand quality and bacteriologic quality after controlling for characteristics of the vending environment. No fecal contamination was detected in any sample, and 82% of total heterotrophic bacteria counts were below the recommended limit for packaged water. Sachets from brands with a positive reputation for quality were 90% less likely to present any level of total heterotrophic bacteria after controlling for confounding factors. These results contrast with much of the recent sachet water quality literature and may indicate substantial progress in sachet water regulation and quality control.
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Affiliation(s)
- Justin Stoler
- Department of Geography and Regional Studies, University of Miami, Coral Gables, Florida; Department of Public Health Sciences, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, Florida; Department of History, Political Science, and Philosophy, Delaware State University, Dover, Delaware; Water Research Institute, Council for Scientific and Industrial Research, Accra, Ghana
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Drinking Water in Transition: A Multilevel Cross-sectional Analysis of Sachet Water Consumption in Accra. PLoS One 2013; 8:e67257. [PMID: 23840643 PMCID: PMC3686721 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0067257] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2013] [Accepted: 05/15/2013] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Rapid population growth in developing cities often outpaces improvements to drinking water supplies, and sub-Saharan Africa as a region has the highest percentage of urban population without piped water access, a figure that continues to grow. Accra, Ghana, implements a rationing system to distribute limited piped water resources within the city, and privately-vended sachet water–sealed single-use plastic sleeves–has filled an important gap in urban drinking water security. This study utilizes household survey data from 2,814 Ghanaian women to analyze the sociodemographic characteristics of those who resort to sachet water as their primary drinking water source. In multilevel analysis, sachet use is statistically significantly associated with lower overall self-reported health, younger age, and living in a lower-class enumeration area. Sachet use is marginally associated with more days of neighborhood water rationing, and significantly associated with the proportion of vegetated land cover. Cross-level interactions between rationing and proxies for poverty are not associated with sachet consumption after adjusting for individual-level sociodemographic, socioeconomic, health, and environmental factors. These findings are generally consistent with two other recent analyses of sachet water in Accra and may indicate a recent transition of sachet consumption from higher to lower socioeconomic classes. Overall, the allure of sachet water displays substantial heterogeneity in Accra and will be an important consideration in planning for future drinking water demand throughout West Africa.
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The Sachet Water Phenomenon in Accra: Socioeconomic, Environmental, and Public Health Implications for Water Security. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2013. [DOI: 10.1007/978-94-007-6732-4_11] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/20/2023]
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Stoler J. Improved but unsustainable: accounting for sachet water in post-2015 goals for global safe water. Trop Med Int Health 2012; 17:1506-8. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-3156.2012.03099.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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