The course will explain the hydrogeological processes at the origin of the availability of groundwater resources for the human consumption. Starting with the definition of the continental water cycle, skills about the recharge, the circulation and the outflow of groundwater will be achieved. The course will be provide specifications on the criteria for classification of drinking waters and mineral waters, based on the hydrogeological features. The ultimate objective of this course is to allow a better understanding of the geological and hydrogeochemical mechanisms responsible for the different chemical composition of the drinking water and the genesis of the main Italian mineral waters.
Also, the course includes educational tours in natural spring areas and in mineral water pumping and bottling plants.