Something in the Water? Regional contamination of our water supply

Australia is known to have high quality drinking water, and standards that ensure the health and safety of the population. But is this really the whole picture? Although most Australians are accustomed to turning on the tap and safe, clean drinking water flowing out, many regions are suffering from a water crisis. With droughts creating limited water supply and contamination of the water that is available, communities are facing serious impacts. Even in cities the picture is complicated, with levels of contaminants such as lead being recorded that breach Australian water standard guidelines.  Anthony Amis from Friends of the Earth has been researching the numerous breaches to drinking water standards across Australia, and tracking these through his online map. Alison Bleaney is a doctor in St Helens, Tasmania who has been studying the impacts of pesticide contamination in the drinking water supply on human and biological health. This week's show is #1242 and was produced by Em Gayfer