NITRATE CONCENTRATION IN DRINKING WATER IN SCHOOLS FROM RURAL AREAS OF THE MAČVA DISTRICT (SERBIA)

Abstract

The schools with their own water supply sources, such as wells, had higher nitrate concentrations compared to those connected to public water supply systems. The retrospective ten-year analysis of nitrate concentrations trend in water samples from private water supply systems (wells) in rural schools of the Mačva district using database of the Institute for Public Health Šabac, were carried out in this study. Data on nitrate concentrations were processed through a retrospective analysis of 4030 water samples. The average ten-year nitrate concentration was 24.4 mg/l. In 235 samples were detected high nitrate concentrations, with the average ten-year value of 113.2 mg/l. The linear trend model suggests that the nitrate concentration was decreasing by 0.9 ml/l per year. The reason for such trend is probably the increase in the implementation of appropriate water treatment methods used to reduce nitrate concentration (reverse osmosis). According to the results it is important to provide regular monitoring and management of nitrate concentrations in drinking water in schools to ensure the health and safety of students. Also, there is a need for the implementation of preventive measures to reduce nitrate pollution, such as promoting sustainable agricultural practices, proper waste management, and investing in advanced water treatment technologies.