One of the parts of the business that doesn't seem to be getting much attention right now is PET's bacteria treatment product which was unveiled by the company back in April 2017, but that could change in a hurry given the apparent market need and market size to reduce harmful bacteria such as E.coli in water bodies to acceptable (safe) levels. Bacteria
Certain types of bacteria are used in water treatment processes to improve the quality of water. In water bodies such as those with inflow from industry and sewerage, bacteria can be used to consume or break down pollutants. For example bacteria can: facilitate an environment where there is an increase in oxygen to assist with the breakdown of organic material (such as leaves and decaying aquatic plants). A measurement of organic pollution in a sample of water is the Biological Oxygen Demand (BoD). Bacteria can also assist with the assimilation of organic compounds in the water. The test that measures the chemical decomposition of organic and inorganic contaminants is referred to as the Chemical Oxygen Demand (CoD). Bacteria can also be used to reduce the amount of other types of bacteria in water such as E. coli which causes human and water borne diseases.
DENVER -- New testing by the Denver Department of Public Health and Environment shows higher than normal levels of bacteria in the water, including E. coli. The recent hot temperatures encourage the growth of bacteria. The 2018 Water Quality Report says most of the streams in Denver are not suitable for swimming at this time. Jon Novick of the DDPHE said the South Platte River is a good example of how high temperatures affect the growth of bacteria in water. "This river receives runoff from roads and streets it gets discharges from waste water treatment plants. You could be at risk of making yourself sick,” he said. Health experts say people can become sick from E. coli bacteria by swallowing a small amount of water or wading with an open cut or sore. The signs of illness include vomiting, diarrhea and fever. The water should be safer once temperatures become cooler, but public health officials say regardless of the time of year, it's important to wash your hands before eating if you've been in any stream or lake. The health department has an online map that shows updated water conditions.
The State of Michigan is largely defined by water. It is surrounded by four Great Lakes, is crisscrossed by 75,000 thousand miles of streams and rivers, and contains thousands of inland lakes and wetlands. Michigan’s residents want and deserve clean water to enjoy for swimming, fishing, paddling and playing. Routine testing recently has shown E. coli levels in many areas are above the established standards. E. coli is used as an indicator for fecal contamination and the water quality standard is designed to protect human health during recreation. These levels increase the risk of illness upon contact or incidental ingestion of the water. Sources of E. coli can include untreated human sewage, failing septic tanks, livestock agriculture, pets, wildlife, and illegal connections from home sewer systems to surface water.
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