Focus: Environmental Engineering
|
Lecture Video - by Toby NT Nelson
Location of Water Treatment Plant
Option 1 Coastal City (Loiza) Loiza, a coastal city with abundant freshwater lakes and rivers, offers potential water resources for a water treatment plant. However, Loiza's vulnerability to hurricanes has been evident, as Hurricane Maria in 2017 and Hurricane Fiona in 2022 caused damage to existing water treatment plants. Additionally, due to its low-lying nature, implementing a water treatment facility would require supplementary machinery to pump water from the source for treatment. While the coastal location provides accessibility to water, the risks posed by hurricanes and the need for additional infrastructure should be considered. Option 2 Mountains (Comerio) Nestled in the mountains, Comerio boasts a unique landscape characterized by natural springs that feed into a high-velocity valley depression. Establishing a treatment plant in Comerio presents an opportunity to harness these natural resources, but it comes with challenges. The construction of a dam at the base of the mountains would be necessary to facilitate the plant. Interestingly, despite the potential benefits, previous attempts to build treatment plants in Comerio have been hindered by logistical issues, particularly the heavy haulage and construction equipment requirements of the 1970s. The mountainous setting offers pristine water sources, but the historical challenges tied to infrastructure should be carefully weighed. Before the Class Write the following questions on the board.
Section 2
After discussion, each group will present their findings to the class. |
Lecture Video Part 2
Group Activity and Discusion.
Water Treatment Options
Option 1 One Treatment Plant with Capacity to serve 80% of Puerto Rico Opting for a treatment plant with the capacity to serve approximately 80% of Puerto Rico's population presents a substantial opportunity. This approach, however, raises concerns about the long-term sustainability of the system in the face of potential hurricanes or earthquakes. A critical aspect to consider is that implementing this solution might require the resettlement of indigenous residents from their current homes. While this choice offers a significant reach in terms of service, it necessitates a delicate balance between expanded access to clean water and the potential social impact of displacement. Option 2 Implementation of Multiple Treatment Plants Exploring the possibility of establishing multiple treatment plants introduces an intriguing alternative. While this decision entails additional upfront construction costs, it offers inherent advantages. Diversifying the infrastructure across various locations addresses the owner's concerns regarding vulnerability to natural hazards. Furthermore, adopting this approach mitigates the need for relocating certain residents, ensuring their continuity within their existing communities. While it involves a higher initial investment, the long-term benefits in terms of risk reduction and community preservation should be weighed against the financial considerations. In Class Assignment Instructions
Water Distribution Technology Option 1 Enhanced Traditional Distribution Network Opting for an enhanced traditional distribution network involves utilizing existing infrastructure such as pipelines, pumps, valves, and storage tanks to ensure water delivery across Puerto Rico. This approach enables an assessment of the current infrastructure, facilitating necessary repairs and upgrades for efficient water distribution. Initially, this choice may be economically advantageous by leveraging the existing setup. However, it's important to note that ongoing maintenance could be substantial, and challenges such as leaks, pressure fluctuations, and capacity constraints might arise. Option 2 Advanced Smart Water Distribution System Choosing an advanced smart water distribution system entails the implementation of cutting-edge technologies for monitoring and regulating water flow. This includes the deployment of sensors, meters, and data analytics platforms to promptly detect leaks, manage water pressure, and optimize distribution. This innovative approach provides real-time insights into water consumption, identifies inefficiencies, and supports proactive maintenance efforts. Despite the potentially higher initial costs, the long-term benefits of heightened efficiency, reduced water loss, and superior water infrastructure management make this option a strategic investment. In Class Assignment Instructions
|
Lecture Video Part 3
Group Presentations on their findings
Additional Information on Puerto Rico
History with Hurricanes Puerto Rico, being an island in the Caribbean, is susceptible to various environmental challenges, including hurricanes and potential issues related to water dumping. The island's geographical location makes it prone to severe weather events, such as hurricanes, which can have a significant impact on its water infrastructure. Hurricanes can cause widespread damage, leading to disruptions in the water supply, damage to treatment plants, distribution networks, and storage facilities. The recent examples of Hurricane Maria in 2017 and Hurricane Fiona in 2022 have demonstrated the vulnerability of the water infrastructure in coastal areas like Loiza. Additionally, with climate change, the frequency and intensity of hurricanes may increase, posing further risks to the island's water system. As a result, any proposed infrastructure improvements must take into account the need for resilience and the ability to withstand the impact of such extreme weather events. Moreover, Puerto Rico faces challenges related to water dumping, particularly the management of stormwater runoff and wastewater. Improper handling of stormwater can lead to flooding, erosion, and contamination of water sources. To ensure the long-term sustainability of the water system, the proposal should consider eco-friendly stormwater management practices that prevent excessive water dumping and promote water recycling and conservation Political Climate In 1952, Puerto Rico's relationship with the United States underwent a significant change. The U.S. Congress passed Public Law 600, allowing Puerto Rico to draft and approve its own constitution. The Constitution of Puerto Rico was ratified, and the island's political status was redefined as the "Commonwealth of Puerto Rico" or "Estado Libre Asociado" (Free Associated State). Under the Commonwealth arrangement, Puerto Rico gained a measure of self-governance, with its own elected Governor and bicameral legislature. The island had the authority to govern many internal affairs, but certain matters, such as defense, currency, and immigration, remained under the control of the U.S. federal government. Puerto Ricans were granted the right to elect their own Governor, but they still did not have voting representation in the U.S. Congress. Despite the Commonwealth status, Puerto Rico's autonomy remained limited, as it was subject to the authority of the U.S. Congress and the President. Federal laws and policies applied to Puerto Rico, and the island's economy continued to be impacted by U.S. trade and tax policies. Over the years, there have been ongoing debates and referendums in Puerto Rico about its political status. Some Puerto Ricans have advocated for statehood, seeking full representation and voting rights in the U.S. government. Others have supported independence, advocating for full sovereignty and the end of colonial ties. |