Question

activated carbon in some countries have become the primary unit to overcome micro pollutant in drinking water. what about countries with limited funds for activated carbon? how to overcome it?

Answer 1

There are some other processes to overcome micropollutant such as ion exchange columns, coagulation, membrane, biological treatment and others. Where I worked, we always used coagulation and then ultra/nano membrane filtration. And actually the costs were less expensive than the carbon process. But this always depends on the volume to be treated.

Answer 2

Step 1 : Secure the water source. Active monitoring is essential.
Step 2 : Follow normal water treatment process
Step 3 : Finally before chlorination. Do a NF/RO process depending on your target pollutant.
Membranes have become a lot cheaper compared to last 10 yrs and full
automation is possible.

Answer 3

If that is the case why don't you try using the EARTH!!, carefully arranged and monitored stacks of soil( mostly granite with minimal porosity) can be an excellent alternative(LOCALLY) to G.A.C or other membranes, and it comes with its own benefits(can't be attacked by chlorine) and disadvantages. JUST TRY DOING IT LIKE MOTHER NATURE DOES IT.