Industry and Water Pollution —
New Research and Development Programs
L. W. WEINBERGER, Assistant Commissioner
Research and Development
Federal Water Pollution Control Administration
U. S. Department of the Interior
Washington, D. C. 20242
INTRODUCTION
Nearly 20 years ago, I attended an industrial waste conference at Purdue University for the first time. It was the third conference; 264 people attended it.
The first conference held in 1944 had 203 attendees.   In contrast, more than 800
Eeople are attending this 22nd conference during which more than 80 papers, are
eing presented  by eminent scientists from across the country and around the
globe.   Approximately 1,100 papers have been presented at the Purdue meetings.
In commenting on the first conference, Professor D. E. Bloodgood said 1)
"The indications are that, if at all possible, the Industrial Waste Utilization Conference will become one of Purdue's outstanding annual affairs." Not only has
this Conference become one of Purdue's outstanding annual affairs but also an outstanding affair on a national basis. This is, of course, a tribute to Professor Blood-
good and all the cooperating groups who have made the Purdue Conferences a continuing success.
The first speaker at a symposium or a conference usually has an advantage in
that he has the opportunity of saying things first -- but, my address has been given
before -- perhaps several times.   And I quote:
"The treatment of industrial wastes is vitally important, not only to a limited
few individuals or interests, but to many people whose lives and welfare are directly or indirectly affected."
"The fact is that practically all industrial wastes can be treated by a process
or a combination of processes to a degree which will permit their discharge into
almost any watercourse. The factor which limits the adoption of such processes is
the cost.''
"A notable increase in stream pollution is a consequence of industrial development and growth. With all indications pointing to a continuation of this
trend, it is essential that each State inaugurate apollution abatement program..."
"Industry in general is becoming more nad more aware of the necessity for
waste treatment and pollution abatement not only because of its effect upon the
general welfare of the public but also because of its own dependence upon rivers
and streams for suitable water for manufacturing processes. "
"However, the benefits accruing from pollution abatement and industrial
waste treatment are so far-reaching that industry should be prepared to bear its
share of the total costs. "
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