Understanding the Inventions That Changed the World Season 1 Episode 17 Water and Sewer Systems

Understanding the Inventions That Changed the World is a fascinating documentary series that delves into the breakthrough inventions that have shaped the course of human history. This season, episode 17 titled Water and Sewer Systems takes us back in time to explore how humans have always struggled with their basic needs for water and sanitation. The episode traces the development of water and sewer systems, a vital invention that helped to revolutionize urban infrastructure and allowed cities to flourish.

The episode begins by introducing the viewer to the early days of human civilization, where access to clean water was a major challenge. The ancient Romans were pioneers in developing water systems which allowed them to transport water into their cities. These innovative systems included aqueducts and fountains, many of which can still be seen today.

Over time, as urban populations grew, the need for more extensive plumbing systems became paramount. The second half of the 19th century saw the development of specialized water companies that focused on pumping, treating, and distributing water to consumers. New water storage and filtration systems were developed, which helped to prevent water-borne diseases like cholera and typhoid that had previously plagued cities.

Water systems also had a profound effect on urban hygiene and sanitation. In the late 1800s, scientists began to understand the link between poor sanitation and disease. This led to the development of more advanced sewer systems, which allowed waste to be safely transported out of cities. Early iterations of sewer systems were open channels that ran through the streets. Eventually, closed systems with pipes were developed, allowing waste to be discreetly transported out of sight.

As the episode progresses, we see how modern water and sewer systems have continued to evolve. The introduction of chlorine as a disinfectant in the early 20th century helped to reduce the incidence of water-borne diseases even further. In recent years, the focus has shifted towards more sustainable systems, as cities explore ways to conserve water, minimize waste and re-use resources. One example of such efforts is the implementation of grey-water systems, which capture and treat non-potable wastewater for irrigation and other non-potable applications.

The episode also examines the challenges of maintaining aging water and sewer infrastructure and how major events like natural disasters or changes in land use can impact these systems. We see how municipalities have had to invest significant sums of money to upgrade existing systems and prevent contamination of their water supplies.

Overall, Water and Sewer Systems is a fascinating and informative glimpse into an often-overlooked aspect of modern urban infrastructure. The episode reminds us how essential access to clean water and safe sanitation practices are to our quality of life and how the human race has struggled throughout history to meet these basic needs. Understanding the Inventions That Changed the World continues to be a thought-provoking series that highlights the ingenuity and creativity necessary to solve some of the world's most pressing problems.