What is one public health risk associated with untreated wastewater disposal?

One significant public health risk associated with untreated wastewater disposal is the spread of waterborne diseases. When wastewater is not properly treated, it can contain pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, and parasites that thrive in human and animal waste. These pathogens can contaminate drinking water supplies, recreational waters, and agricultural irrigation systems, leading to a range of health issues for the population exposed to contaminated water. Diseases like cholera, hepatitis A, and giardiasis are examples of illnesses that can result from contact with untreated wastewater, posing a serious threat to community health and well-being.

Considering the other options, improved water conservation, reduction of industrial waste, and decreased food safety do not directly relate to the immediate health risks posed by untreated wastewater. In fact, those choices do not reflect the direct consequences of failing to manage wastewater effectively, making the spread of waterborne diseases the most pertinent public health concern in this context.