Final answer:
Plumbing systems were initially necessary to get rid of human waste and ensure sanitary conditions in urban centers. Over time, advanced engineering developments have provided clean water and effective waste disposal, greatly impacting public health and comfort. Sewage treatment processes are critical in preserving water quality and preventing waterborne diseases.
Step-by-step explanation:
Plumbing systems first became necessary in order to get rid of human waste and maintain sanitation within growing urban settlements. The ancient Romans were prominent in developing complex plumbing systems, exemplified by their innovative construction of aqueducts and sewer systems. These early systems facilitated not only waste removal but also supplied water to large cities like Rome itself. Throughout history, advances in engineering have ensured the continual supply of clean water and disposal of wastewater, impacting public health and urban development significantly. For instance, during the late 1800s, the sewer system in London helped address the issue by carrying human waste away from populated areas, thus preventing diseases such as cholera and typhoid fever.
The resolution of water pollution and maintaining water quality are ongoing challenges that have persisted over the past one hundred years. Effective sewage treatment processes are currently utilized to minimize pollution and disease. In urban areas, this is generally managed through sewage treatment plants, while rural areas often use septic tank systems. One of the main purposes of these treatments is to remove organic matter and eliminate hazardous bacteria from the water supply.