In Britain we can drink clean water from the tap and sewage treatment is - compared with the past - much improved. Most of our water / sewerage systems date back to 19th century campaigns to clean up Britain's dirty cities. Most towns and cities organised their own system. Later they were unified and nationalised, but now, once again, the various parts have been privatised.

Most water businesses have their own website. Check out your own region e.g. Thames Water www.skillsware.net/thames offers information and educational activities, including a downloadable 'Network Challenge' interactive game with teacher notes 'as featured in the Millennium Dome'. The players have to construct a water distribution system - and have to deal with various problems including cost and 'customer relations'.