This short newsletter is produced quarterly and provides updates on CREW projects, publications and the use of CREW outputs in the policy environment.

This work was commissioned under the CREW call down service. The object of the project was to carry out a literature search on the effects of switching from chlorine to monochloramine for water disinfection, specifically with regards to the effects on lead and copper corrosion. Information was sought on current understanding of disinfectant choice on lead and copper corrosion; the lessons learned from a Washington case study, and guidance on the appropriate sampling protocol for lead and copper measurements.

In most water treatment plants ozone is used for multiple applications. Ozone is now used as a disinfectant, an oxidant of organic and inorganic molecules, a coagulant aid, removing taste and odour, a means of controlling algae and as a way of biologically stabilising water. Ozone is very effective for disinfection against bacteria, viruses and protozoa. However, when used in a disinfection capacity, it is often used when contaminants are highly resistant to more conventional disinfectants.

The July-September 2012 edition of CREWs NEWs is available now. Find out about CREW events, projects, contract opportunities and competitions as well as news and events from the wider water sector. If you have any comments about CREWs NEWs or would like to advertise an upcoming event please get in touch.

The April-June 2012 edition of CREWs NEWs is available now. Find out about CREW events, projects, contract opportunities and competitions as well as news and events from the wider water sector. If you have any comments about CREWs NEWs or would like to advertise an upcoming event please get in touch.

A 6 page report which examines the protocol for aerial spraying of Asulam (for bracken control). The existing operational protocol for spraying by helicopter requires a minimum 50 meter no-spray buffer zone from all surface water bodies, wells, boreholes and springs. This report looks at 1) the science behind the 50 meter buffer zone value; 2) the definition of a "watercourse" in upland catchments that could be used for this guidance.

The October-December 2012 edition of CREWs NEWs is now available. Find out about CREW events, projects, contract opportunities and competitions as well as news and events from the wider water sector. If you have any comments about CREWs NEWs or would like to advertise an upcoming event please get in touch.

Short accessible briefing summaring current academic thinking and evidence on the value of water resources. It considers the Scottish context and examines how the value of water resources might be developed. Produced for the stage 3 debate for the Water Resources (Scotland) Bill which took place in the Scottish Parliament on Wednesday 27th February.

This research builds on the current evidence base showing a salutogentic (i.e. health improving) benefit of green space (termed “green health”). Based on this evidence we posited that water settings (blue space) should hold similar health benefits, i.e. offer opportunities for increased physical activity and recreation; afford opportunities for social contact – planned or impromptu; and promote psychological restoration and stress reduction.

There is increasing interest in exploring the health and well-being impacts of water in the environment (blue health), including the potential of Sustainable Drainage Systems (SUDS) to enhance amenity for residents. Blue health research is relatively new, and the purpose of this project was to review the literature and draw together any research evidence about the health impacts of SUDS.