# Perceptions on Drinking Water and Wastewater in a Local Area in Western Romania
###### Abstract  
The present study focuses on current knowledge of the local tap water and sewage systems among the citizens of three western Romanian localities. Only one of the considered localities in this study, namely, Pecica, partially benefits from access to a centralized tap water and sewage system. The interest in this subject was caused by a procedure initiated by the local authorities to develop and improve the aforementioned infrastructure. The investigation methodology consisted of an online survey. The generated feedback was optimal for determining the general level of residents' awareness of water and wastewater quality and the means for informing decisions of community interest. Nearly 75% of the interviewed persons declared that they had not been informed about future regional investments. The results indicated the necessity of raising the residents' awareness about water quality and its importance for health, daily activities, and the environment. Only a few of the interviewees could provide concrete and accurate values for water quality parameters. water system; freshwater; structure rehabilitation; respondent's knowledge level; sensory properties; standards compliance +
Footnote †: journal: _Sciencedence_  
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Depending on the local infrastructure, the drinking water parameters for public institutions such as schools and/or hospitals should be prioritized. Microbiological contaminants pose significant safety risks to children [5] and patients. Various chemical or physical factors can also alter water quality. Several contaminating mechanisms exist, including residual chemicals from pipe cleaning, substances, and microorganism infiltration. [PERSON] et al. have developed an artificial neural network that can help authorities anticipate potential risks and act to limit or eliminate them [6]. The local water company certifies that the water complies with current regulations. Under such conditions, possible alterations in the water transport system to the consumer may occur. The transfer network is generally old and suffers from age-related degradation processes [4]. The specific infrastructure needs periodic replacements, depending on technical problems. In addition to the central water supplier, another source is represented by wells. The authorized personnel in the field must also determine their quality. Usually, landowners should be aware of their responsibilities for ensuring the safety and security of the water source. Unfortunately, a study has shown that they must pay more attention to this issue [7]. Citizen surveys' responses and laboratory reports on water quality are the main foundations for the rehabilitation of water infrastructure. Another aspect of the drinking water supply that needs to be considered is the limitation of its natural resources. One possible solution is to reuse water after appropriate treatment. Such a solution must be based on public acceptance. A study in Nevada, USA, revealed different agreement levels for this possible approach. The main influencing factors were cultural and geographical [8]. Citizens' views on the importance of water in their daily lives were the first issue to be tracked in the survey. Its impact is often minimized. Various studies highlighted the importance of increasing people's knowledge about the negative influence of insufficient water intake [9]. One issue that needs to be clarified concerns the difference between daily consumption and water intake. [PERSON] et al. mentioned in their study the importance of forming healthy habits regarding water consumption from the early years of life [10]. The present investigation focused on three main directions. The first (1) was to determine the perception of the citizens of Pecica on the quality, supply, and access to drinking water. The second (2) concerns their opinion on wastewater treatment and disposal.