La pollution des eaux continentales africaines : experience acquise, situation actuelle et perspectives

Water pollution, already an urgent problem in developed countries, is becoming a major one in developing countries. The widespread use of pesticides for agricultural purposes and disease control, together with waste generated by increasing urban growth, are rarely compensated for by equivalent pollution control. This book discusses in detail pesticides used in disease control programmes, their effect on the aquatic macro and microenvironment, and weighs the beneficial effects up against the harmful effects. Toxic agents such as DDT, banned in western countries but still in common use in Africa, are also covered. Industrial development producing waste products such as heavy metals and hydrocarbons are discussed as well as the effects of rapid urban growth with resulting inadequate waste removal and overloaded sanitation systems. Water usage for irrigation, fishing, recreation or industry have differing requirements for water quality. Manipulation of the environment for water needs has also caused irreparable environmental damage. Strategies for surveillance of Africa's continental waters by international organizations are outlined, and a need for stringent and consistent legislation is suggested.