Nitrate contamination

The nitrate content of drinking water is rising at an alarming rate in several parts of the world. The increase is due to the lack of proper sewage treatment and primarily to excess fertilizer application. Also, eutrophication in several coastal areas is triggered by high nitrate concentrations. The main purpose of this book is to integrate scientific knowledge related to exposure assessment, health consequences and control of nitrate contamination in water. The motivation is related to the magnitude, the possible adverse health effects, and the high cost of controlling nitrate contamination. Future research tasks are defined by an interaction among hydrologists, toxicologists and environmental engineeres in an integrated framework for nitrate risk management.