Regulatory Compliance

Breakthrough in Microplastics Monitoring: Affordable and Efficient Detection for Water Treatment Plants

Microplastics, tiny plastic fragments wreaking havoc on our ecosystems, are a growing concern. Detecting and managing these contaminants is crucial for maintaining water quality and safeguarding public health. A recent breakthrough from researchers at Nagoya University, in collaboration with the National Institute for Materials Sciences (NIMS) in Japan, promises to revolutionize microplastic monitoring with a method using porous metal substrates and machine learning to cheaply and effectively detect microplastics.

Here’s why this is a game-changer for water treatment professionals:

  • Faster, Cheaper Monitoring: This new method eliminates the need for expensive and time-consuming separation techniques. Imagine capturing and identifying six key microplastic types – polystyrene, polyethylene, and more – in one go.
  • Straightforward Analysis: The system utilizes a special light technique (surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy) to analyze captured microplastics. The complex data is then deciphered by a machine learning algorithm called SpecATNet, ensuring accurate and swift identification.
  • Deployment-Ready for All Labs: The good news? This method is designed to be affordable and user-friendly. The materials required for the system bring cost savings of 90% to 95% compared to commercially available alternatives. This makes the method accessible even to resource-limited labs and facilities, democratizing the ability to monitor and manage microplastic pollution.

Key Takeaways for Water Treatment Professionals:

  • This innovation has the potential to revolutionize microplastics monitoring in water treatment plants.
  • Faster and more affordable detection methods can lead to better data on microplastic contamination, allowing for improved treatment strategies.
  • Widespread adoption of this technology can significantly contribute to safeguarding public health and our aquatic ecosystems.

The Future of Microplastics Monitoring

The researchers are continuously improving the system, aiming to broaden its detection range and compatibility with various data types. This paves the way for even more comprehensive microplastics monitoring in the future. SOURCE: Nature Communications

EPA Ramps Up Cybersecurity Inspections for Water Utilities: What You Need to Know

In response to increasing cyber threats, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has issued a critical warning to water utilities across the nation, revealing substantial gaps in cybersecurity compliance. According to the EPA’s recent enforcement alert, more than 70% of inspected water systems fail to meet essential security standards mandated by the Safe Drinking Water Act (SDWA). Common deficiencies include the use of default passwords and a lack of multi-factor authentication.

A Growing Threat

Cyber-attacks targeting water systems are on the rise. Notable incidents include Russian hacktivists disrupting water systems in Texas and Iranian-linked “CyberAv3ngers” defacing U.S. water infrastructure equipment. These attacks underscore the sector’s vulnerability and the urgent need for enhanced cybersecurity measures.

EPA’s Increased Enforcement Measures

To address these threats, the EPA is ramping up inspections and enforcement actions. Deputy Administrator Janet McCabe emphasized the agency’s commitment to protecting the nation’s drinking water from cyberattacks. The EPA’s plan includes:

  • Increased Inspections: More frequent checks of community water systems to ensure compliance with cybersecurity standards.
  • Civil and Criminal Actions: Potential enforcement actions against non-compliant systems, especially those posing imminent risks.
  • Risk and Resilience Assessments: Ensuring utilities conduct mandatory risk assessments and develop robust emergency response plans.

Legal and Regulatory Challenges

Efforts to mandate cybersecurity measures have faced opposition. A proposed EPA update introducing new cyber rules was halted by legal challenges from several states and water trade associations, who argued that the EPA overstepped its authority. In response, the Water Risk and Resilience Organization Establishment Act was introduced to create a dedicated federal regulatory body for cybersecurity in water systems, similar to the electric sector’s regulatory framework.

Collaboration and Future Steps

The EPA, along with the White House, has reached out to state governors, emphasizing the severity of cyber threats and the need for a coordinated response. A meeting with federal officials aims to bolster state-level awareness and readiness.

The EPA’s alert underscores the critical need for water utilities to prioritize cybersecurity, safeguarding public health and ensuring the resilience of essential services against evolving cyber threats. SOURCES: EPA, Smart Water Magazine

Next-Gen Water Treatment: Cutting-Edge Tech for a PFA-Proof Plant

Staying ahead of contaminants and ensuring the delivery of safe, clean water to the public is a paramount challenge. As populations grow and industrial activities increase, the demand for high-quality water intensifies, making advanced water treatment technologies more critical than ever. Two pivotal advancements in this domain are water quality monitoring and membrane technology, both offering significant benefits and practical solutions for water treatment.

While traditional methods like chlorine disinfection have served us well, according to a 2023 study by the U.S. Geological Survey, at least 45% of the nation’s tap water contains one or more per- and polyfluorinated alkyl substances (PFAS), also known as “forever chemicals”. These emerging threats, alongside stricter government regulations, are fueled by urgency and demand a multi-pronged approach.

Water Quality Monitoring: The First Line of Defense

Effective water quality monitoring is essential for detecting contaminants and ensuring compliance with safety standards. Modern monitoring systems leverage real-time data and advanced sensors to provide continuous insights into water quality parameters such as pH, turbidity, and contaminant levels. Integrating these advanced monitoring systems means more proactive and efficient management of water resources, enabling swifter response to anomalies. Practical advice for implementation includes:

  • Invest in Integrated Systems: Choose systems that offer seamless integration with existing infrastructure and provide comprehensive data analytics.
  • Prioritize Training: Ensure staff are adequately trained to interpret data and respond swiftly to any anomalies.
  • Regular Maintenance: Schedule regular maintenance and calibration of monitoring equipment to maintain accuracy and reliability.

Continuous, real-time water quality monitoring can be a crucial edge for treatment facilities, providing a more complete picture of water conditions and allowing for better informed water management decisions and real-time public transparency.

Membrane Technology: New Frontiers in Filtration

Imagine a microscopic barrier so selective it allows water molecules to pass through while rejecting everything else. That’s the magic of membrane filtration, inspired by nature’s semi-permeable membranes in plant cells. Membrane technology has revolutionized water treatment by providing highly effective filtration solutions. These technologies, including reverse osmosis (RO), ultrafiltration (UF), and nanofiltration (NF), can remove a wide range of contaminants, from large particulates to dissolved salts and organic molecules.

For practical application of these technologies, consider the following:

  • Select Appropriate Membranes: Choose membranes based on the specific contaminants present in your water source and the desired water quality.
  • Optimize Operational Parameters: Regularly monitor and adjust parameters such as pressure and flow rate to maximize efficiency and lifespan of the membranes.
  • Implement Regular Cleaning Protocols: Establish routine cleaning and maintenance schedules to prevent fouling and ensure consistent performance.

By embracing advanced water quality monitoring and membrane technology, water treatment professionals can not only meet today’s challenges but also future-proof their systems for a cleaner, safer tomorrow.

SOURCE: CDC, AWWA

The Silent Threat in Our Pipes: Getting Started with Lead Service Line Replacement 

For many water treatment professionals, the focus lies on what goes into the treatment plant, not necessarily what comes out the other side. But aging infrastructure within city limits can pose a hidden danger: lead service lines. These lead pipes, once a common material, can leach lead into drinking water, causing serious health problems, especially for children and pregnant women. 

According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), an estimated 9.2 million lead service lines (LSLs) serve water to properties in communities across the United States. In order to meet the Biden-Harris Administration’s goal of replacing 100% of LSLs, here’s a proactive approach to conducting lead service line replacement (LSLR) and tackling the silent threat in our drinking water. 

Prioritize Lead Service Line Inventory and Replacement: 

A crucial first step is creating a comprehensive map of lead service lines within your city. Utilize public records, ground penetrating radar, and resident surveys to identify these potential hazards.  Develop a data-driven plan for lead service line replacement, prioritizing high-risk areas and vulnerable populations. 

Grant Opportunities and Public-Private Partnerships: 

Replacing lead service lines can be a significant financial burden. Explore federal and state grants specifically dedicated to lead service line replacement programs. Additionally, consider public-private partnerships with local businesses or foundations to share the costs and expedite the process. 

Community Outreach and Education: 

Educate residents about the dangers of lead in drinking water and how to identify lead service lines in their homes. Provide clear and transparent information on the replacement process, financial assistance programs, and steps to minimize lead exposure while lead lines are still present. 

Lead service lines are a public health concern that demands immediate action. By prioritizing inventory and replacement, exploring funding opportunities, and educating the community, water treatment professionals can play a critical role in safeguarding the health of U.S. citizens. Let’s work together to ensure every tap delivers lead-free, clean water. 

For more information and financial resources for tackling your city’s LSLR, visit the EPA’s website

SOURCE: EPA, Whitehouse.gov 

Gear Up for PFAS: New EPA Limits Reshape Your Treatment Landscape 

Water Analysis for PFAs in River

Heads up, water pros! The EPA just dropped a game-changer for municipal water treatment. Their new guidelines on Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS) – those “forever chemicals” plaguing our water sources – are here, and they’re setting stricter limits than ever before

As guardians of your city’s tap water, you know the importance of keeping contaminants at bay. These new regulations raise the bar for PFAS removal, impacting how we approach treatment at the source. 

The Specifics 

The EPA is cracking down on five specific PFAS compounds: PFOA and PFOS (with a limit of 4 parts per trillion) and PFHxS, PFNA, and HFPO-DA (at 10 parts per trillion). These levels are ridiculously tiny – imagine a single drop in 20 Olympic pools! But for public health, every part matters. 

The good news: the EPA recognizes the challenge. They’ve identified proven methods like activated carbon filtration, reverse osmosis, and ion exchange as effective against PFAS. Additionally, the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law has allocated a $10 billion to help cities upgrade their treatment capabilities. 

Time to Strategize: What’s Next for Your Plant? 

The compliance deadline is five years from now, giving you time to assess your current system’s PFAS removal efficiency. Here’s your action plan: 

  • Explore Treatment Options: Evaluate the efficiency of existing methods and research new technologies specifically designed for PFAS removal. Pilot testing different options will help you find the best fit for your plant’s needs and budget. 

The Bottom Line: A Collaborative Effort for Safe Water 

These new guidelines are a win for public health, but they require a united front from water treatment professionals. By working closely with the EPA and leveraging available resources, we can ensure that every city resident has access to clean, PFAS-free tap water. Remember, you’re the frontline heroes, and with these new guidelines, you have the tools to deliver the ultimate victory: safe drinking water for all. 

Six Months Left to Comply with Lead and Copper Rule Revisions

Copper Sheets

Water utilities are on a tight deadline as the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) prepares to enforce the Lead and Copper Rule Revisions (LCRR) by October 16, 2024. These revisions are designed to ensure the safety of drinking water and reduce lead exposure in communities across the United States. With six months left, it’s crucial to understand the key requirements and take necessary steps to comply with the rule. The LCRR builds on the original Lead and Copper Rule (LCR), established in 1991 to control the presence of lead and copper in drinking water.

The updated version, released in 2022, introduces significant changes aimed at better protecting communities from lead contamination. These changes were prompted, in part, by the Flint water crisis, where thousands of residents were exposed to lead poisoning from April 2014 to October 2015. The LCRR includes stricter requirements, expanded testing protocols, and mandatory lead service line replacement for many water systems.

Under the LCRR, public water systems must submit a comprehensive inventory of service line materials, identifying lead lines, galvanized lines requiring replacement, and unknown materials by the compliance deadline. This inventory is a critical step toward meeting regulatory requirements and mitigating lead exposure. The guidance provided by the EPA emphasizes the importance of transparency and communication with the public regarding the location and condition of lead service lines.

Additionally, the LCRR introduces new public notification requirements. In the event of a Lead Action Level exceedance, communitywide public notification must occur within 24 hours. This requirement underscores the urgency of addressing lead contamination and maintaining public trust. Stephen Estes-Smargiassi, chair of the American Water Works Association’s (AWWA) Lead and Copper Rule Advisory Committee, advises water utilities to proactively engage with public officials, media, and other stakeholders before starting the sampling process to avoid surprises and ensure clear communication.

The EPA has released several resources to help water systems comply with the LCRR. The Guidance for Developing and Maintaining a Service Line Inventory provides best practices, a template for creating inventories, and case studies to assist water systems in meeting the October 16 deadline. The Small Entity Compliance Guide, released in June 2023, is tailored to support small community and non-transient non-community water systems. Additionally, the EPA has hosted webinars to educate professionals on the revised rule and funding opportunities through programs like the Drinking Water State Revolving Fund (DWSRF) and the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (BIL).

With six months remaining, water treatment professionals should focus on several key actions to ensure compliance with the LCRR:

1.       Develop a Comprehensive Service Line Inventory: This step involves identifying all lead and galvanized lines and creating a plan for replacement. The inventory must be submitted by October 16, 2024.

2.       Communicate with Stakeholders: Proactive communication with public officials, health departments, and community members is essential. Ensure that everyone is aware of the new requirements and the steps being taken to comply with the LCRR.

3.       Prepare for Public Notification Requirements: Establish a process for communitywide public notification within 24 hours of a Lead Action Level exceedance. This requires coordination with media outlets, public officials, and other stakeholders.

4.       Stay Informed and Utilize Available Resources: The EPA provides extensive guidance and resources to support compliance efforts. Take advantage of webinars, templates, and other materials to ensure compliance.

The clock is ticking, so it’s crucial to act now to ensure compliance by October 16, 2024.

Resources:
AWWA
EPA
OpenGov

DOE Announces $75 Million Investment in Desalination and Water Reuse Technologies

Water Reuse

The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) has announced an additional $75 million in funding over the next five years for the National Alliance for Water Innovation (NAWI), a hub focused on desalination and water treatment innovation. This funding aims to continue the progress in developing technologies that reduce the cost and energy required for water purification. As part of its ongoing efforts, NAWI will address the escalating needs for modernized water infrastructure and improved access to potable water, aligning with the national goal of achieving net-zero emissions by 2050.

NAWI’s mission, supported by this funding, is to address the critical technical barriers that currently hinder the cost-effectiveness and energy efficiency of water purification technologies. By fostering collaborations among industry, government, and academic partners, NAWI aims to propel significant advancements in desalination technologies. These advancements are crucial for modernizing America’s water infrastructure, increasing access to clean, potable water, and aligning with the national goal of achieving a net-zero emissions economy by 2050.

The relevance of this initiative is magnified by the interconnectedness of water and energy systems. Water is essential for producing nearly every major energy source, and energy is indispensable for transporting and treating water. The integrated approach that the DOE is advocating through NAWI is designed to synergize efforts to decarbonize the water economy while ensuring secure water futures for communities across the nation.

For water treatment professionals, the focus of NAWI on piloting integrated energy-efficient and decarbonized water systems is particularly pertinent. This approach not only addresses the immediate needs of treating and delivering water but also emphasizes the reuse of various wastewaters. Such initiatives are vital in a landscape where traditional fresh water supplies are increasingly strained by environmental and demographic pressures.

Over the past five years, NAWI has already made significant strides by funding over 60 projects that span early-stage research to pilot-scale implementations. These projects have explored a range of innovative water treatment and desalination unit processes, automation technologies, and novel modeling tools and analysis. The outcomes from these projects have contributed to the development of the NAWI Master Roadmap and five sector-specific roadmaps addressing key challenges in desalination and the treatment of nontraditional source waters.

Looking ahead, NAWI 2.0 aims to deepen its impact by focusing on three primary challenges: Increasing the focus on piloting integrated systems that are not only energy-efficient but also geared towards decarbonization, emphasizing the reuse of a variety of wastewaters, which is increasingly recognized as critical for sustainable water management, convening stakeholders—including technology developers, water managers, and community representatives—to optimize water supply management through collaborative innovation.

This strategic direction promises to open new avenues for technological development and implementation in the water treatment sector. Water treatment professionals will need to adapt to and engage with these emerging technologies, which will require a combination of technical expertise and strategic thinking. The ability to integrate new processes into existing frameworks, to innovate within regulatory and economic constraints, and to anticipate future water quality challenges will be key to leveraging the opportunities presented by NAWI’s initiatives.

Furthermore, NAWI’s extensive community, comprising 108 Research Consortium member organizations and over 424 Alliance Organizations, provides a robust network for collaboration and knowledge exchange. This network is an invaluable resource for professionals looking to stay at the forefront of water treatment technology.

The DOE’s renewed funding for NAWI represents a significant commitment to transforming the landscape of water treatment in the United States. For water treatment professionals, this initiative not only challenges them to innovate but also offers a platform to significantly influence the future of sustainable water management.

Resources:
Department of Energy

EPA Imposes First Limits on PFAS

Polluted Water with PFAs

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) this week introduced new national drinking water standards, marking a significant regulatory step to limit exposure to perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), commonly known as “forever chemicals.” These substances, which have been linked to various health risks including cancer and liver disease, are notoriously persistent in the environment and human body. Under the new regulations, six types of PFAS—PFOA, PFOS, PFNA, PFHxS, GenX chemicals, and additional combinations—are now subject to stringent limits due to their health risks. The EPA has set the maximum contaminant levels (MCLs) at 4 parts per trillion for PFOA and PFOS, and 10 parts per trillion for PFNA, PFHxS, and GenX chemicals.

This regulatory action follows mounting evidence of PFAS’ adverse health impacts, such as increased risks of kidney and liver cancer, immune system damage, and developmental issues in children. The EPA’s decision aims to reduce these health risks by enforcing lower contamination levels and requiring public water systems to undertake significant testing and treatment if levels exceed these new standards.

The implementation of these limits is expected to impact between 6% to 10% of the nation’s public water systems, translating to a need for upgrades and treatment technologies across approximately 4,100 to 6,700 systems. This undertaking underscores the EPA’s commitment to public health, with anticipated benefits including the prevention of thousands of deaths and serious illnesses.

To support the compliance with these new standards, the EPA has allocated significant funding, notably $1 billion from the 2021 federal infrastructure law. This funding aims to assist states, territories, and public water systems in implementing PFAS testing and treatment solutions. Additional financial support has stemmed from litigation against PFAS manufacturers, including a notable settlement where companies like 3M have agreed to pay billions to affected water providers.

While these new regulations represent a critical step towards safeguarding drinking water, they also highlight ongoing challenges. The treatment and monitoring of PFAS are costly and complex, and the financial burden may ultimately be passed onto consumers, especially in smaller communities with fewer resources. 

These actions are part of a broader effort by the EPA to tackle environmental contaminants and ensure cleaner, safer water for all Americans. As the agency continues to expand its oversight and regulation of PFAS, further measures and funding will likely be necessary to address the pervasive challenges posed by these chemicals in the environment.

Resources:
NBC
AP
NPR

Water Week 2024: What’s in Store

village water fountain

Water Week 2024, commencing on April 7, 2024, presents a convergence
of professionals, policymakers, and advocates focused on tackling the water
sector’s most pressing challenges. With a diverse lineup of events spanning the
week, participants will engage in critical dialogues surrounding legislation,
regulatory hurdles, and innovative solutions for sustainable water management.

The highlight of Water Week, the National Water Policy Fly-In
on April 9, 2024, brings together 350 water sector professionals from across
the United States. Representatives from associations, public water utilities,
and policy experts will convene in Congressional office visits, advocating for
pivotal changes and increased federal support for water infrastructure. This
collective effort, spearheaded by leading organizations such as the National
Association of Clean Water Agencies (NACWA), the Water Environment Federation
(WEF), the Water Research Foundation (WRF), and the WaterReuse Association,
underscores the urgent need for addressing aging infrastructure, PFAS
regulation costs, and other critical issues facing the sector.

In addition to legislative advocacy, Water Week 2024
features events designed to engage and inform participants about the latest in
water research, policy, and operations. Notably, the Solar Eclipse Watch Party
and Community Cleanup on April 8, 2024, combines community service with a
unique astronomical event, fostering a sense of camaraderie among water
professionals. Meanwhile, the Onsite Water Reuse Summit, scheduled for April
10-11, 2024, promises insightful discussions on integrating science, policy, and
operational strategies for water reuse, featuring keynotes from industry
visionaries.

Another significant event, the WEFMAX, slated for April
10-12, 2024, in Alexandria, VA, facilitates an exchange of ideas, best
practices, and lessons learned among Water Environment Federation members. This
forum exemplifies the collaborative spirit essential for advancing the water
sector’s goals.

Moreover, the completion of the AlexRenew Tunnel marks a
milestone in efforts to protect Alexandria’s waterways. The open house on April
13, 2024, offers the public a rare opportunity to celebrate this achievement
and learn more about the innovative engineering behind it.

Central to Water Week’s agenda is the America’s Water
Affordability Imperative Congressional Briefing on April 10, 2024. This
briefing aims to shed light on the consequences of unaffordable water systems
and explore solutions to ensure no American is left without access to this
essential resource. The involvement of the Congressional Black Caucus, along
with opening remarks by Senator Alex Padilla and Congresswoman Lisa Blunt
Rochester, signifies the bipartisan importance of water affordability.

Water Week 2024 represents a concerted effort to elevate water issues on the national stage, advocating for robust funding, innovative research, and policy frameworks that support the sector’s resilience and sustainability. As professionals gather in Washington, D.C., their unified
voice emphasizes the critical role of water management in public health, environmental protection, and economic development. Through collaboration and advocacy, Water Week seeks to catalyze lasting solutions to the challenges that loom large over the water sector, ensuring a secure and sustainable water future for communities across the nation.

Resources:
WWD
Water Finance and Management

Spiked: Pharmaceuticals and Illicit Drugs in Water Systems

pharmaceuticals and drugs

Water treatment professionals are increasingly dealing with
a relatively new rival to traditional pollutants: the presence of both legal
and illegal drugs in water systems. Recent investigations have revealed that
substances such as fentanyl, methamphetamine, cocaine, and a range of
pharmaceutical active compounds (PhACs) are increasingly contaminating aquatic
environments, posing significant risks to human health and ecological systems.

In San Francisco, a novel wastewater testing program has
provided unprecedented insights into the city’s drug usage patterns, revealing
alarming levels of potent substances like fentanyl and methamphetamine in local
wastewater. This initiative, which began in November 2023, marked the city’s
worst year for overdose deaths, with 806 fatalities attributed to accidental
overdoses. By analyzing wastewater samples from various city locations, health
officials aim to monitor drug supply and use trends, thereby enabling more
effective public health responses. This method of surveillance, which was also
employed during the COVID-19 pandemic, underscores the evolving strategies
cities are adopting to address public health crises.

Meanwhile, Las Vegas has encountered similar issues, with
water scientists detecting increased concentrations of party drugs and
medications in the water following major events like the Electric Daisy
Carnival and the NFL draft. These findings are particularly concerning given
the city’s reliance on recycling all indoor water, including sewage, to
mitigate the effects of the ongoing megadrought in the West. While the
treatment processes in Southern Nevada are deemed effective in removing these
drugs from the water, the long-term ecological impacts, especially on fish and
marine life, remain a source of concern.

PhACs, identified as emerging micropollutants, originate
from various sources, including the pharmaceutical industry, hospitals, and
agricultural runoff. Found in concentrations ranging from nanograms to
micrograms per liter in wastewater treatment plant effluents, PhACs can cause
acute and chronic harm to wildlife. Addressing this issue, wastewater treatment
technologies such as bioremediation, adsorption, and advanced oxidation
processes have been explored for their efficacy in removing PhACs. Notably, membrane
bioreactors (MBRs) have shown removal efficiencies of up to 99%, presenting a
promising solution for minimizing pharmaceutical pollution.

The advent of these pollutants in water systems highlights
the need for innovative treatment solutions that can address a wide range of
contaminants, including novel drugs and PhACs. As cities like San Francisco and
Las Vegas pioneer wastewater testing for drug surveillance, the water treatment
industry must adapt and evolve its technologies to combat this emerging threat.
The development of new bioremediation techniques and the investigation of
green, eco-friendly alternatives are critical steps toward ensuring the safety
and sustainability of our water resources. As water treatment professionals
continue to confront these issues, their efforts will be instrumental in
safeguarding both human communities and natural ecosystems from the adverse
effects of drug pollution.

Resources:
KQED
Review Journal
Chemosphere