EPA's water pollution control methods are derived from water quality monitoring and other scientific studies performed by the Agency in cooperation with state, local and tribal authorities. One of the most common forms of water pollution control is the treatment wastewater from homes, businesses and industry. Municipal plants treat and purify wastewater before it is released back into streams, rivers and lakes. Additional control measures include pretreatment of waste at industrial facilities before it is released into the wastewater system. New treatment technologies are also under development, including the use of biological treatments such as carbon adsorption, distillation and reverse osmosis. These treatments allow for the re-use of formerly toxic wastewater for industrial and agricultural purposes.
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