Access to Clean Drinking Water

Tens of millions of Americans lack access to safe drinking water because of aging water processing infrastructure and failing septic systems. 

Clean water and sanitation are critical for maintaining good health and preventing the spread of disease.

The Need for Clean Water

Clean water is essential for human health, environmental well-being, and the economy. Here are some reasons why clean water is important in the United States:

• Health:
  Clean water is necessary for good health and preventing the spread of disease. Unsafe water can cause short-term health issues like diarrhea, headaches, and vomiting. It can also lead to long-term health issues like kidney failure, diabetes, hepatitis, and cancer. 
• Mental and spiritual health:
  Access to clean water allows communities to thrive mentally and spiritually. Dehydration can alter thinking and problem-solving abilities.  
• Economic well-being:
  Clean water is important for the nation's economic well-being.
• Environmental well-being:
  Clean water is important for the environment.

Despite improvements in water quality and drinking water over the past 50 years, there are still threats to water quality and safety. Some of these threats include:

• Water infrastructure:
  Aging water infrastructure and failing septic systems can lead to inadequate sanitation facilities.
• Contaminants:
  Contaminants like lead and per- and polyfluoralkyl substances (PFAS) can cause adverse health effects.
• Cybersecurity:
  Water and wastewater systems are vulnerable to attack by nation states, cybercriminals, and hacktivists.

Approaches to Provide Clean Drinking Water

Key approaches:

• Infrastructure upgrades:
  Investing in upgrades to existing water treatment plants, pipes, and distribution systems to ensure reliable and clean water delivery.
• Lead pipe replacement:
  Prioritizing the removal of lead service lines, a major concern for water quality, especially in older homes.
• Stricter regulations:
  Enforcing stricter EPA standards for contaminants like lead, PFAS, and other emerging chemicals in drinking water.
• Water conservation practices:
  Promoting water-efficient appliances, fixtures, and irrigation systems to reduce water usage.
• Community education:
  Raising awareness about water quality, proper water usage, and the importance of water conservation.
• Home water filtration systems:
  Providing access to affordable home water filtration systems for individuals with concerns about local water quality.
• Targeted programs for vulnerable communities:
  Implementing specific initiatives to address water insecurity in underserved areas, including rural communities, Native American reservations, and low-income neighborhoods.
• Rainwater harvesting:
  Utilizing rainwater collection systems to supplement water supplies, especially in regions experiencing drought.
• Wastewater recycling and reuse:
  Treating wastewater to a high standard to allow for reuse in non-potable applications like irrigation.
• Technology advancements:
  Exploring new technologies for water purification and desalination to address water scarcity challenges.

Other important considerations:

• Environmental justice:
  Ensuring equitable access to clean water for all communities, regardless of socioeconomic status or geographic location.
• Collaboration between government agencies and private sector:
  Partnering with water utilities, businesses, and community organizations to implement comprehensive water solutions.
• Monitoring and testing:
  Regularly monitoring water quality to identify potential issues and ensure compliance with regulations.