Measures to Provide Settlements with Quality Drinking Water: Assessment of the Potential by the Example of the Odessa Agglomeration

Abstract

The rapid urbanisation of the settlements of the Odessa agglomeration has negatively affected the quality of the drinking water that is transported to consumers. The purpose of this study was to determine the most effective measures to provide settlements with quality drinking water. In order to achieve this goal, possible options for measures were considered, and an assessment and comparative analysis of the potential of the proposed options were executed. The most effective measures were evaluated on two criteria: compliance with the principles of sustainable development and whether the measures were effective, reliable and comfortable for consumers when implemented. The factors that influenced the decision-making were the situation and conditions of the implementation of the measures, laboratory tests of the source water and laboratory tests of the water after the treatment process and consumer awareness of participation. The findings demonstrated that a measure was effective if it met the stated criteria. The results of the study are planned to be used as reference material in the elaboration of an integrated plan for the development of settlements, for decision-making in the organisation of recreation and health-related areas and for other resource planning activities.