In the heart of Pakistan, a silent revolution is brewing, one that could reshape the bottled mineral water industry and have ripple effects across the energy sector. Dr. Neyha Rubab Syed, a researcher from the School of Energy and Environment at Southeast University, has been delving into the intricate world of bottled mineral water (BMW), and her findings are stirring the pot.
Syed’s research, published in the journal ‘Applied Water Science’ (translated from Persian as ‘Practical Water Science’), focuses on the spatio-temporal analysis of BMW brands in Pakistan. In layman’s terms, she’s been mapping out the safety and quality of bottled water brands across different regions and time periods. But why should the energy sector care about bottled water?
The answer lies in the interconnectedness of our resources. Water is a critical component in energy production, and vice versa. As Syed puts it, “Ensuring the safety and reliability of bottled water is not just about public health; it’s about maintaining the integrity of our resources and the industries that depend on them.”
Syed’s study, which analyzed 33 water quality reports from various districts of Pakistan between 2013 and 2024, revealed some startling truths. By examining physico-chemical parameters like pH, electrical conductivity, hardness, total dissolved solids, chloride, and arsenic, she was able to classify brands as safe, unsafe, disappeared, or emerging. This classification, she hopes, will allow for more targeted regulatory efforts and public awareness.
The integration of spatial data with Geographic Information Systems (GIS) has been a game-changer. It’s enabled a more efficient and timely assessment of water quality, something that could be a boon for the energy sector. After all, the energy industry relies heavily on water for cooling, processing, and more. Ensuring the water they use is safe and reliable is paramount.
But the implications of Syed’s research go beyond just the energy sector. It’s a wake-up call for the bottled water industry. With more frequent testing, public disclosure of non-compliant brands, and incentives for consistent performers, the market could see a significant shift towards safety and reliability.
Syed’s work is a testament to the power of interdisciplinary research. It’s a reminder that the problems we face are often complex and interconnected, and so too must be our solutions. As she continues her work, the energy sector and beyond will be watching, eager to see how this silent revolution unfolds.
The research underscores the importance of continued regulatory efforts by the Pakistan Council of Research in Water Resources (PCRWR) to maintain high standards for BMW in Pakistan. Future strategies could include more frequent testing, public disclosure of non-compliant brands, and incentives for consistent performers to further improve market safety and reliability. The findings, published in ‘Applied Water Science’, provide a roadmap for enhancing water quality standards and ensuring public health.