The diagrams illustrate the current and future water supply systems in Australia, showing how water is distributed and treated in each scenario.
In the present system, water from the dam or storage facility is supplied to the city, which includes households, shops, and factories. Wastewater from these entities is directed to a water treatment plant, where it is processed and released into a river. Stormwater from the city, however, flows untreated into the river, posing potential environmental risks.
The future water supply system introduces significant improvements. Water will still be drawn from the dam and distributed to the city. Wastewater from households, shops, and factories will continue to be sent to the water treatment plant, but in this system, stormwater will also be redirected to the treatment plant, rather than flowing directly into the river. This change ensures that both wastewater and stormwater are processed before being released, reducing pollution and improving water quality.
In summary, the future system is more sustainable as it enhances water treatment by addressing both wastewater and stormwater, helping to prevent untreated water from contaminating the river.