Rainwater tanks may be harbouring hidden health risks
New research from Australian universities indicates that household rainwater tanks can harbor harmful bacteria and heavy metals. The study found that many tanks used for drinking water contained contaminants, suggesting a need for better maintenance and awareness.
Why it matters
This research highlights potential public health risks associated with common water-saving practices in residential areas.
Rainwater tanks can harbour potentially harmful bacteria, according to Australian researchers.
Newswise — Rainwater tanks are a popular way for Australians to save water, but new research has found they can also harbour potentially harmful bacteria and metals that could pose health concerns.
Researchers from Adelaide University and Flinders University tested rainwater from 100 household tanks across Adelaide and the Adelaide Hills, finding bacteria linked to gastroenteritis and other infections in a number of tanks.
The study found Campylobacter bacteria in 13% of tanks, Salmonella in 10%, Shigella in 3% (all linked to gastroenteritis) and Pseudomonas aeruginosa (which causes other infections) in 12%.
Bacteria were also detected in tanks used for drinking water.
Two-thirds of the households surveyed (67%) said they used their tank water for drinking and cooking, highlighting the importance of understanding what is in the water people are consuming.
Get smarter about the news
Sign up free for a feed built around what you actually care about, Dive Deeper research on any story, and the full text of every article.
Create free accountAlready have an account? Sign in