Sources, chemistry, bioremediation and social aspects of arsenic-contaminated waters: a review

Arsenic-contaminated water is a major concern in many areas worldwide, causing several diseases such as cancer. There is therefore a need for advanced methods to clean waters because conventional methods have drawbacks such as generation of hazardous sludge, heavy operation and high costs. Here we review arsenic sources, chemistry, toxicity and remediation methods. We discuss also sociological aspects of arsenic prevention. Sources include surface water, groundwater and seawater. Methods include bioremediation, phyto-remediation and biofilters. Sociological aspects are public awareness, sharing information on arsenic-free water sources, removing As at the household level, building a community plant and training facilitators.