1. From Data to Action With AI 

Artificial intelligence is here, optimizing everything from resource allocation to predictive maintenance. AI-driven operational intelligence is transforming water treatment facilities by centralizing data and streamlining processes. AI offers a competitive advantage that can predict equipment failures before they happen or optimize chemical dosing in real-time. 

2. Cybersecurity Moves to the Frontline 

As water infrastructure becomes increasingly digital, cybersecurity is essential. With rising cyber threats targeting critical infrastructure, utilities must prioritize network segmentation, multi-factor authentication, and continuous monitoring. A breach can jeopardize water safety and public trust. Strengthen your cybersecurity framework now, because resilience is the new standard. 

3. Cracking Down on Non-Revenue Water (NRW) 

Water loss is both an environmental issue and a financial one. On average, 40% of drinking water is lost before reaching consumers. In 2025, advanced metering infrastructure (AMI), IoT sensors, and digital twins are leading the charge against NRW. The challenge? Not data collection, but data integration. Many systems operate in silos, limiting their potential. Break down those barriers, unify your data, and empower your teams with actionable insights, and you can lower losses, reduce costs, and benefit from a more sustainable operation. 

4. Wastewater Treatment Plants Go Smart 

With the global population expected to hit 8.2 billion this year, wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs) are under pressure like never before. Digital transformation could be the solution. Real-time monitoring, predictive analytics, and automation are turning WWTPs into smart facilities that deliver greater efficiency, improved compliance, and enhanced environmental stewardship. Beyond efficiency gains, integrating WWTPs into smart city frameworks is positioning them as key players in sustainable urban ecosystems. It’s time to upgrade, because yesterday’s processes won’t meet tomorrow’s demands. 

5. Flood Management Gets a Tech Makeover Too 

Floods are becoming more frequent and severe, but technology is turning the tide. Decision Support Systems (DSS) and Early Warning Systems (EWS) are now indispensable tools for adaptive water management. By leveraging predictive analytics and real-time data, these systems help utilities anticipate extreme weather events and respond more effectively. Reactive approaches are no longer enough; the time to invest in flood resilience of the future is now. 

6. Smart Irrigation Maximizes Efficiency 

Agriculture consumes roughly 70% of the world’s freshwater, making smart irrigation a game-changer. By combining remote sensing, automation, and advanced algorithms, digital irrigation systems are reducing water use while boosting crop yields. And it’s not just farms. Urban irrigation is also going digital, supporting greener cities without wasting water. If you’re involved in irrigation, these technologies are essential for staying competitive and sustainable. 

7. Smart Buildings and DHC Networks Lead Urban Sustainability 

Cities are getting smarter, and water management is part of the equation. Smart buildings and District Heating and Cooling (DHC) networks are optimizing water and energy use through digital platforms. These systems are reducing urban water consumption and supporting climate goals by improving energy efficiency and promoting renewable resources. The future of urban sustainability is digital! Make sure you’re part of it. 

8. Service Quality Takes Center Stage 

At the end of the day, water treatment is about delivering clean, safe water to consumers. Technologies like AI, machine learning, and remote infrastructure control are transforming water supply management. The benefits include improved service reliability, greater transparency, and enhanced customer satisfaction. In a world where consumers expect instant access to information, these innovations are essential for maintaining public trust and meeting regulatory requirements. 

2025 could be a turning point for water management. With climate change, population growth, and aging infrastructure driving demand for innovation, digital transformation is no longer optional. Embrace these technologies now or risk falling behind. The future of water treatment is smarter, faster, and more resilient—make sure you’re ready to lead the charge. 

SOURCES: World Economic Forum, Smart Water Magazine, Idrica 

Please enable JavaScript in your browser to complete this form.

technologies? encounter trying

What barriers do you encounter when trying to adopt new water management technologies?

Submit

The post 8 Tech Trends Reshaping Water Treatment in 2025 appeared first on Water Treatment 411.

Understanding the Final Amendments  

The new rule under the Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA) ensures that all new PFAS and certain PBT chemicals are subject to full, robust safety reviews before manufacture. Historically, some PFAS could bypass stringent review processes through Low Volume Exemptions (LVE) or Low Release and Exposure Exemptions (LoREX) if their production volumes or exposure potential were deemed low. However, the EPA has now made it clear that the risks posed by these “forever chemicals” require comprehensive assessment, regardless of quantity or exposure level. 

This rule is part of the Biden-Harris Administration’s broader commitment to addressing PFAS contamination, as outlined in the EPA’s PFAS Strategic Roadmap. By removing these exemptions, the agency seeks to prevent new PFAS from slipping through regulatory cracks and entering the environment unchecked. 

What This Means for Water Treatment Professionals 

PFAS contamination has become one of the most pressing challenges in water treatment. These chemicals are used in countless industrial and consumer applications, from non-stick cookware to firefighting foams, and their resilience makes them difficult to break down, leading to persistent contamination in our greatest resource. This new rule carries several key implications for those in the industry: 

1. Enhanced Regulatory Compliance: 
   Treatment plants will need to stay vigilant in monitoring water sources for potential new PFAS contaminants. The elimination of LVE and LoREX exemptions means there is less risk of unknown or unvetted PFAS entering the water supply, simplifying compliance with existing and upcoming PFAS regulations. 

2. Public Health Protection: 
   By ensuring that all new PFAS are subjected to a full safety review, the EPA is taking a proactive approach to protect communities from the health risks associated with these chemicals. This directly benefits water treatment facilities by reducing the chances of unexpected PFAS contamination that can lead to costly mitigation efforts and public health crises. 

3. Operational Adjustments: 
   Water treatment operators may need to review and potentially upgrade treatment technologies to handle PFAS contaminants more effectively. Advanced filtration techniques such as activated carbon adsorption, ion exchange, and reverse osmosis remain critical tools in PFAS removal. Staying informed about the regulatory landscape ensures operators are prepared to adapt their processes as needed. 

4. Transparency and Accountability: 
   The new rule emphasizes transparency by aligning the chemical review process with TSCA requirements. Water treatment professionals will have clearer insights into the chemicals entering the market and their associated risks. This improved transparency helps in making informed decisions about treatment strategies and public communication. 

Aligning with the 2016 TSCA Amendments 

The amendments also ensure that the EPA makes one of five possible safety determinations for 100 percent of new chemical submissions. This change reflects the intent of the 2016 Frank R. Lautenberg Chemical Safety for the 21st Century Act, which strengthened TSCA to ensure that no new chemicals enter the market without appropriate safety assessments. 

For water treatment professionals, this consistency in the review process offers greater confidence that chemicals approved for manufacturing have undergone rigorous safety checks. It reduces the risk of unexpected contaminants appearing in water supplies and places accountability firmly on chemical manufacturers to prove safety upfront. 

The EPA’s revocation of safety exemptions for PFAS and PBT chemicals is a significant step in protecting public health and the environment. For water treatment professionals, this change means more robust regulatory oversight, fewer risks of unexpected contamination, and a clearer path toward ensuring safe, clean water for all communities. By staying informed and prepared, the industry can continue to meet these challenges and safeguard the future of water quality. 

SOURCES: Smart Water Magazine, EPA  

The post A Watershed Moment: EPA Finalizes PFAS Exemptions Rule appeared first on Water Treatment 411.

PFAS: A Persistent Threat 

PFAS, often dubbed “forever chemicals,” are a class of synthetic compounds with widespread industrial applications, including manufacturing, firefighting, and textiles. Their resistance to degradation has led to their accumulation in water bodies worldwide, posing serious health risks. Exposure to PFAS has been linked to a myriad of health issues, such as cancer, liver damage, and reproductive problems. 

Traditional Testing Limitations 

Traditional methods for detecting PFAS, such as liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS), are highly accurate but come with significant drawbacks. These methods are expensive, require specialized equipment and skilled operators, and are not easily portable. This makes widespread testing challenging, particularly in remote or underserved areas. 

Enter A Novel Approach: Nanopore Technology 

The UMass Amherst researchers have introduced a novel approach that leverages nanopore technology to detect PFAS. This method involves incorporating cyclodextrin molecules into nanopores, which can selectively bind to PFAS molecules. As PFAS molecules traverse the nanopore, they alter the electrical current, enabling their detection. 

Key Advantages  

This innovative approach addresses the complex challenges posed by traditional PFAS testing methods, offering: 

• Affordability: The new method is significantly more cost-effective than traditional LC-MS, making it accessible to a broader range of users, including smaller municipalities and private water systems. 

• Portability: The device’s portability enables on-site testing and rapid analysis, streamlining the monitoring process and allowing for timely decision-making. 

• Sensitivity: While not as sensitive as LC-MS, the new method can still detect PFAS at levels relevant to public health concerns, particularly in areas with significant contamination. 

• Simplicity: The device is relatively simple to operate, requiring minimal training, which reduces the need for specialized expertise. 

Potential Applications 

The new PFAS testing method has a wide range of potential applications, including: 

• Water Quality Monitoring: The new method can be employed to monitor water quality in diverse settings, including drinking water sources, wastewater treatment plants, and industrial sites. Regular monitoring can help identify potential contamination sources and track trends over time. 

• Environmental Remediation: It can aid in identifying and prioritizing sites for remediation efforts, optimizing resource allocation and ensuring that resources are directed to areas of greatest need. 

• Regulatory Compliance: The method can be used to ensure compliance with regulatory standards for PFAS, mitigating potential legal and environmental risks. By providing a more accessible and cost-effective testing method, it can help facilities meet regulatory requirements more efficiently. 

• Public Health Protection: By enabling more widespread and frequent monitoring, the new method can help identify and address PFAS contamination in drinking water sources, reducing exposure risks to the public. 

The Future of PFAS Detection 

While the new PFAS testing method demonstrates significant promise, further research and development are necessary to enhance its sensitivity and expand its detection capabilities. As the technology matures, it has the potential to become an invaluable tool for water treatment professionals, enabling more effective monitoring, treatment, and urgent prevention of PFAS contamination. 

The future of clean water depends on our ability to innovate. With this new tool in our arsenal, we can work towards that vision and ensure a healthier planet for generations to come. 

SOURCES: Science Advances, Smart Water Magazine 

The post Small Device, Big Impact: New Portable PFAS Testing Method Could Transform Water Treatment appeared first on Water Treatment 411.

Infrastructure: Moving Toward Private Investment 

Under the Biden administration, modernizing water infrastructure was a priority, with the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law directing $3.6 billion in 2024 alone toward water systems. This funding supported lead removal, pipeline modernization, and projects aimed at protecting public health. Trump’s administration is likely to reduce federal intervention in water infrastructure, opting instead to encourage state, local, and private investment partnerships. 

For water treatment professionals, this shift means that reliance on federal grants and subsidies for upgrading systems may decrease. Instead, a new focus on private investment may require utilities to engage in public-private partnerships that prioritize economic efficiency. While this market-centered approach could encourage innovation and cost-cutting, it may also lead to fewer projects targeting the underserved, as private investors prioritize quick returns over broad public health initiatives. 

Water Quality: A Deregulatory Agenda 

Water quality protection was a central issue for the Biden administration, which implemented the first national drinking water standards for PFAS and worked to remove lead service lines in vulnerable communities. Conversely, Trump’s approach is likely to reduce federal regulations and oversight. A prime example of this approach is the 2020 Navigable Waters Protection Rule, which redefined federal protections for smaller streams and wetlands, effectively reducing the scope of the Clean Water Act. 

While reduced federal oversight may temporarily lower compliance costs and ease the regulatory burden for utilities, this change could pose long-term challenges. Water utilities, especially those near deregulated industries, may face increased contamination risks if pollution control standards are relaxed. This means more local governments and utilities may need to take on additional responsibilities to ensure water quality, which could lead to increased costs or pressure to establish local regulations in areas previously protected by federal standards. 

Climate Change: Shifting Responsibility for Resilience 

Climate resilience was an urgent priority for the Biden administration, which allocated billions to prepare water systems for climate-related threats such as floods and droughts. In contrast, Trump’s stance downplays climate change concerns in favor of supporting fossil fuel development and reducing environmental regulation. 

This pivot could leave many water utilities, especially those in vulnerable regions, with limited federal support for climate adaptation projects. Consequently, utilities will likely need to secure alternative funding to adapt infrastructure for extreme weather. Private funding for resilience projects may be challenging to secure, as immediate financial returns are not always evident. Water professionals may also experience uneven climate readiness across regions, with wealthier or urban areas better positioned to fund their adaptation needs than rural or underserved areas. 

Navigating the New Landscape in Water Treatment 

For water treatment professionals, managing operational risk in this new landscape will require adaptive strategies to handle potential contamination or infrastructure deficiencies. Some utilities may benefit from reduced regulatory costs, but others might face heightened exposure to liability if contamination incidents arise from relaxed standards. 

With the water industry shifting from federal to private-sector-driven initiatives, companies that support the water sector will need to adapt. The transition away from federally mandated sustainability initiatives may decrease demand for certain engineering and construction projects, as public contracts for sustainability-focused infrastructure are expected to decline. Instead, the focus may shift to cost-effective, market-driven projects, especially those funded through public-private partnerships. 

For digital solution providers, the decrease in compliance-based demands could impact tools focused solely on regulatory reporting. However, as utilities increasingly prioritize operational efficiency, demand for digital solutions that enhance cost reduction and equipment longevity is likely to persist. 

In the water treatment sector, relaxed water quality standards may reduce the immediate need for advanced treatment technologies. Nonetheless, sectors with high quality standards—such as pharmaceuticals and food production—will still require these technologies, sustaining demand for advanced treatment options in certain applications. 

A Proactive Path Forward 

As the water industry faces regulatory shifts and evolving public expectations, remaining agile and adaptable will be essential. Companies can build resilience by emphasizing data-driven decision-making, adopting technologies that streamline operations, and actively engaging with private investors to secure funding for essential projects. While the short-term outlook may bring some regulatory relief, the industry’s commitment to responsible water management will play a significant role in ensuring the sustainability and quality of U.S. water resources in the long term. 

In the face of anticipated challenges, the water sector has an opportunity to lead by example, demonstrating how innovation and resilience can sustain high standards in an evolving regulatory landscape. By prioritizing adaptability and public health, water utilities and supporting industries can navigate the changing policy environment while continuing to safeguard the nation’s water resources. 

SOURCES: EPA, Resources.org, Smart Water Magazine 

The post Deregulation, Investment, Risk: The 2024 U.S. Presidential Shift in Water Policy and Implications for Water Treatment  appeared first on Water Treatment 411.

A Closer Look at the AWWA-AMWA Arguments 

At the heart of the AWWA-AMWA statement is a contention that the EPA’s PFAS rule deviated from the established procedures outlined in the Safe Drinking Water Act. The organizations argue that the EPA’s accelerated timeline, limited opportunities for public comment, and use of a novel equation for PFAS standards undermine the scientific rigor and transparency required for effective regulation. 

Specifically, the AWWA and AMWA point to the following shortcomings in the EPA’s approach: 

• Truncated Rulemaking Process: The organizations contend that the EPA’s decision to expedite the rulemaking process limited the time available for thorough scientific evaluation and public input. They argue that a more deliberate approach would have allowed for a more comprehensive assessment of the risks posed by PFAS and the potential impacts of the regulation on water utilities and consumers. 

• Curtailed Public Comment: The AWWA and AMWA argue that the EPA did not provide sufficient opportunities for stakeholders to express their concerns and offer alternative approaches. They contend that a more open and transparent process would have allowed for a wider range of perspectives to be considered, potentially leading to a more effective and equitable regulation. 

• Novel Equation for PFAS Standards: The organizations criticize the EPA’s use of a novel equation rather than a clearly defined measurement as a standard for certain PFAS, arguing that this approach lacks scientific precedent and may not accurately reflect the risks posed by these contaminants. They contend that a more established and well-validated approach would have provided greater certainty and confidence in the regulatory standards. 

Implications of the PFAS Rule 

The outcome of the AWWA-AMWA case could have far-reaching implications for both public health and the water industry. If the court upholds the EPA’s rule, it could set a precedent for future regulatory actions, potentially leading to more aggressive and less flexible approaches to addressing emerging contaminants. This could place a significant burden on water utilities, which may struggle to meet the new standards in a timely and cost-effective manner. 

On the other hand, a ruling in favor of the AWWA and AMWA could force the EPA to reconsider its approach and adopt a more deliberative and science-based process. This could lead to more effective and equitable regulations that better balance the need to protect public health with the practical realities of implementation. 

Potential Avenues for Resolution 

Beyond the legal proceedings, there are several potential avenues for resolving the ongoing PFAS controversy. One option is for the EPA to engage in a more collaborative dialogue with stakeholders, including water utilities, environmental groups, and industry representatives, to develop a consensus-based approach to PFAS regulation. This could involve establishing a working group or task force to identify and address the key challenges and opportunities associated with PFAS management. 

Another possibility is for Congress to provide additional guidance or funding to support PFAS research and remediation efforts. By investing in scientific research, Congress could help to improve our understanding of the risks posed by PFAS and develop more effective and efficient mitigation strategies. 

Finally, it is essential to consider the role of technology and innovation in addressing the PFAS challenge. By investing in new technologies for PFAS detection, removal, and destruction, we may be able to develop more effective and sustainable solutions to this pressing environmental issue. 

The AWWA-AMWA statement on the EPA’s PFAS rule highlights the complex challenges associated with regulating emerging contaminants. While the organizations’ arguments raise valid concerns about the EPA’s approach, it is also essential to consider the urgent need to protect public health from the potential risks posed by PFAS. Ultimately, a resolution to this issue will likely require a balance between scientific rigor, public input, and the practical realities of implementing effective environmental regulations.  

SOURCES: AWWA, Water Online 

The post PFAS Regulation at Crossroads With EPA Litigation appeared first on Water Treatment 411.

Here’s What You Need to Know About the WIFIA Program 

• Financial Lifeline: WIFIA has proven to be a financial lifeline for communities struggling to fund critical water infrastructure projects. By providing supplemental loans, the program has helped bridge the funding gap and accelerate project timelines. 

• Economic Impact: Beyond improving water quality and system resilience, WIFIA investments have generated significant economic benefits. The program has created thousands of jobs and saved communities billions of dollars through lower interest rates and flexible repayment terms. 

• Addressing Pressing Challenges: WIFIA is actively addressing some of the most pressing water challenges of our time, supporting projects focused on climate resilience, PFAS contamination, and equitable access to clean water. 

• Innovative Financing Model: WIFIA’s innovative financing model, which combines federal credit with private investment, has proven to be effective in leveraging resources and maximizing the impact of water infrastructure dollars. 

Navigating the WIFIA Application Process 

Securing a WIFIA loan can be a complex process. Here’s a breakdown of the application process and some essential tips to get you started. 

Before embarking on the application process, it’s crucial to determine if your project qualifies for WIFIA funding. Key eligibility criteria include: 

• Project type: Must be a water or wastewater infrastructure project of regional or national significance. 

• Project size: Minimum loan amount is typically $20 million, but exceptions can be made for smaller communities. 

• Creditworthiness: Applicants must demonstrate financial stability and a strong credit history.  

Building a Strong WIFIA Project Proposal 

A well-crafted project proposal is essential for securing WIFIA funding. Key components of a successful proposal include: 

• Clear project objectives: Clearly outline the project’s goals and expected outcomes. 

• Financial analysis: Demonstrate the project’s financial feasibility, including cost-benefit analysis and return on investment. 

• Community impact: Highlight the project’s positive impact on the community, such as job creation, economic growth, and public health benefits. 

• Environmental sustainability: Emphasize the project’s environmental benefits, including water conservation, energy efficiency, and pollution reduction. 

The WIFIA application process requires extensive documentation. Essential documents include: 

• Project feasibility studies 

• Financial statements 

• Environmental impact assessments 

• Engineering plans and designs 

• Legal documents 

• Letters of support from community leaders and stakeholders 

Here are some additional tips for success: 

• Plan early: Start the application process well in advance to allow ample time for preparation. 

• Seek expert advice: Consult with financial advisors, partners, engineers, and legal experts to ensure your application is comprehensive and compliant. 

• Build relationships: Develop strong relationships with WIFIA program staff to facilitate the application process. 

• Be persistent: The WIFIA application process can be competitive, so don’t be discouraged by initial setbacks. 

By following these guidelines, you can increase your chance of securing WIFIA funding and successfully implementing critical water infrastructure projects into your community. As the nation (and the world) continues to grapple with water scarcity, pollution, and climate change, the WIFIA program is poised to play a critical role to ensure a sustainable water future for generations to come.  

SOURCES: EPA, Smart Water Magazine

The post The WIFIA Loan Program: A Financial Lifeline for the Nation’s Aging Water Infrastructure appeared first on Water Treatment 411.

The Complexity of PFAS Testing 

With thousands of PFAS compounds, varying regulatory standards, and multiple testing methods, the landscape is bewildering. Solid Phase Extraction (SPE) and Liquid Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (LC-MS) methods, like EPA 537.1, are gold standards but time-consuming and complex. Direct Injection LC-MS methods offer quicker results but with lower accuracy. And then there are TOP, AOF, and TOF methods for broader spectrum analysis, but without specific compound identification. 

The Certification Conundrum 

Adding to the complexity is the question of laboratory certification. While essential for drinking water samples, certification might be overkill for certain applications like early-stage technology testing or wastewater monitoring. 

The Bottleneck Effect 

The current state of PFAS testing is characterized by slow turnaround times, high costs, and a lack of real-time data. This is a major setback for both water utilities and technology developers. The former need rapid results to inform treatment decisions, while the latter require real-time data to optimize their technologies. 

Overcoming the Challenges 

To accelerate PFAS remediation, we need to: 

• Streamline Testing: Develop faster, more cost-effective testing methods, including in-field analysis capabilities. 

• Leverage Technology: Embrace advanced analytical tools and AI to process data efficiently. 

• Optimize Laboratory Operations: Improve lab workflows and reduce turnaround times. 

• Collaborate: Foster partnerships between regulators, industry, and academia to develop standardized testing protocols. 

The Road Ahead 

The EPA’s regulations have undoubtedly spurred action, but the PFAS testing bottleneck threatens to slow progress. By addressing the challenges outlined above, the water treatment industry can overcome this hurdle and effectively mitigate PFAS contamination. 

SOURCES: Microchemical Journal, EPA, Journal of Visualized Experiments, H2O Global News 

The post The PFAS Testing Conundrum appeared first on Water Treatment 411.

A Call to Action 

History shows us waiting for a crisis before taking action is a recipe for disaster. The Clean Water Act is a prime example. We need that same collective action to tackle cybersecurity and emerging threats like PFAs. You don’t have to wait for federal funding. Start now by learning how to close your cybersecurity knowledge gaps. 

Plugging the Leaks 

• Training: Resources like CISA’s Top Cyber Actions for Securing Water Systems offer practical steps. Learn to identify attack vectors and take control. 

• Assessments: Conduct regular cybersecurity assessments and develop an incident response plan.  

The Cloud: Your Secret Weapon 

Legacy IT systems are a major cybersecurity risk. Cloud-based solutions offer several advantages: 

• Enhanced Security: Cloud providers invest heavily in security. Their distributed infrastructure offers redundancy and resiliency against cyberattacks and natural disasters. 

• Improved Visibility: Cloud applications log and monitor all activity, allowing for real-time threat detection and automated responses. 

• Reduced Human Error: Automation can simplify tasks and minimize errors that leave you vulnerable. 

Level Up  

• Network with the Infosec Community: Connect with information security experts. Learn from their experience and insights. 

• Free Resources: There are tons of free resources available online. Explore options from Cybrary, SANS, and CISA to deepen your cybersecurity knowledge. 

Cybersecurity is a serious threat, but it’s not unbeatable. By being proactive, educating yourself, and leveraging available resources, you can protect your water utility and the communities you serve.

The post Game On: Mastering Cybersecurity for Your Water Utility appeared first on Water Treatment 411.

These PFAS, or “forever chemicals,” are linked to various health risks and have been widely used in industries and consumer products for decades. The EPA recently set limits for PFAS in drinking water, and traditional water monitoring is missing the mark. Current methods fail to consider pesticides as a potential source of PFAS contamination. This study, a first of its kind, highlights a gap in our water safety net, particularly for rural communities. 

Key Takeaways for Water Treatment Professionals: 

• PFAS from Pesticides: This research suggests a new pathway for PFAS to enter drinking water sources. Be aware of potential PFAS presence in areas with high agricultural activity. 

• Environmental Justice Concerns: Rural, Latinx communities may be at greater risk due to reliance on small water systems and historical exposure to environmental hazards. Expanding PFAS monitoring to these areas is crucial. 

• The Need for Proactive Measures: Water treatment professionals should consider including PFAS testing in their protocols, especially for clients in at-risk areas. Partnering with local organizations serving rural and minority communities can be a powerful step towards ensuring equitable access to safe drinking water. 

• The Future of PFAS and Water Safety: The UC Berkeley researchers are continuing their work with a follow-up study that will directly test wells in vulnerable communities. This ongoing research will provide valuable data to guide future regulations and treatment strategies. 

By staying informed about emerging contaminants like PFAS and prioritizing environmental justice, water treatment professionals can play a key role in safeguarding public health. 

The post New Study Finds PFAS Contamination Threatens Rural Latinx Communities  appeared first on Water Treatment 411.

The High Price of Clean Water 

• Treatment Costs: From monitoring to installing and maintaining treatment systems, water utilities face potential expenditures in the billions. 

• Unequal Burden: Unfortunately, smaller, rural communities are likely to face the greatest financial challenges in affording these essential upgrades. 

Beyond Public Funds 

The Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (BIL) allocates funds for water infrastructure improvements, but only a designated portion is specifically earmarked for PFAS remediation. 

Moving towards a more sustainable solution requires looking beyond solely relying on public funds. Here, the ‘polluter pays’ principle takes center stage. 

Polluter Pays: Holding Manufacturers Responsible 

• Lawsuits are Proving Effective: A growing number of municipalities are taking legal action against PFAS manufacturers, and these lawsuits are yielding significant results, with billions secured for clean-up efforts. 

• Recent Settlements: Companies like DuPont, 3M, and Tyco Fire Products have offered settlements exceeding $14 billion. 

What You Can Do 

• Check Your Eligibility: Public water systems can claim compensation from the multi-district litigation (MDL) settlements even if they did not participate in the initial proceedings. 

• Stay Informed: New lawsuits and settlements are continually emerging, and there’s a strong likelihood that more manufacturers will be held responsible. 

PFAS mitigation is a costly endeavor, but water utilities do not have to shoulder this burden alone. Litigation against polluters serves as a powerful tool to recover financial resources needed for clean-up. Public water systems should actively pursue all available avenues to secure safe drinking water for their communities without placing an undue financial strain on ratepayers. 

By holding polluters accountable, we can pave the way for a more equitable and sustainable solution to the PFAS crisis. 

SOURCE: Water World 

The post PFAS Contamination: A Costly Crisis with a Path to Recovery  appeared first on Water Treatment 411.