Deni, even though desalination plants do have their place for potable water. Of course, too many desalination plants close together could potentially cause elevated regional salinity if properly engineered dispersant discharge systems are not utilized and the body of water is rather narrow. For example, the red sea has witnessed elevated salinity levels with large desalination plants operating in a relatively narrow body of water. However, ocean salinity tends to remain stable with relatively mild impact on the hydrological cycle. Remember, each of these water supply solutions are to be used in aggregate with other solutions as well. For instance, island nations or water scarce coastal areas could potentially use sea water desalination, in addition to potential air to water systems, wastewater reuse systems, rainwater collection systems to meet the water supply requirements that are needed.
Published by Nick Nicholas, App Eng/Technical Director at Genesis Water Technologies, Inc.
Deni, even though desalination plants do have their place for potable water. Of course, too many desalination plants close together could potentially cause elevated regional salinity if properly engineered dispersant discharge systems are not utilized and the body of water is rather narrow. For example, the red sea has witnessed elevated salinity levels with large desalination plants operating in a relatively narrow body of water. However, ocean salinity tends to remain stable with relatively mild impact on the hydrological cycle. Remember, each of these water supply solutions are to be used in aggregate with other solutions as well. For instance, island nations or water scarce coastal areas could potentially use sea water desalination, in addition to potential air to water systems, wastewater reuse systems, rainwater collection systems to meet the water supply requirements that are needed.