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Monday, May 5, 2025
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AI Offers Promising New Weapon in Fight Against Harmful Algal Blooms

By
Melissa Diehl
-

Water treatment professionals are on the front lines of a growing issue: toxic algal blooms, also known as HABs. These blooms, fueled by climate change and nutrient runoff, are becoming more frequent and severe. The good news? Artificial intelligence (AI) is emerging as a powerful tool for predicting and understanding HABs. 

Researchers at Los Alamos National Laboratory are pioneering the use of AI models to analyze vast datasets on HABs. This data includes historical bloom occurrences, water conditions, and genetic information about the algae themselves. By identifying patterns in this complex data, AI can help predict HAB outbreaks before they occur. 

What this means for water treatment professionals: 

  • Earlier warnings: With AI-powered forecasts, water treatment plants can be on high alert for HABs and take proactive measures to protect public health. This could involve increased monitoring, adjusting treatment processes to remove toxins, or issuing public advisories. 
  • Improved treatment strategies: A deeper understanding of HABs, facilitated by AI, can inform the development of more targeted treatment strategies. This could lead to more efficient removal of toxins and potentially lower treatment costs. 
  • Long-term planning: AI can help us understand the complex interplay between climate change, nutrient runoff, and HAB formation. This knowledge can guide long-term planning efforts to reduce HAB risks, such as improved agricultural practices to minimize nutrient runoff. 

These algal blooms are complex, but AI offers a beacon of hope. By harnessing the power of this technology, water treatment professionals can be better equipped to safeguard clean water supplies for all. 

New Study Finds PFAS Contamination Threatens Rural Latinx Communities 

By
Melissa Diehl
-

New research from UC Berkeley reveals that public water wells in rural, predominantly Latinx communities may be disproportionately affected by PFAS (per and polyfluoroalkyl substances) contamination. 

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. 

PFAS Contamination: A Costly Crisis with a Path to Recovery 

By
Melissa Diehl
-

The EPS’s new PFAS standards are a welcome step in safeguarding public health. However, these regulations place a significant financial burden on water utilities tasked with implementing the necessary PFAS mitigation measures. Let’s delve into the substantial costs associated with PFAS removal and explore a critical solution: holding polluters accountable. 

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 Future of Flow: AI, IoT, and Greener Water Treatment 

By
Melissa Diehl
-

The world of water treatment is on the cusp of a revolution. As the global demand for clean water rises, water treatment professionals must be prepared for the future. The future belongs to smart, sustainable systems powered by artificial intelligence (AI), the Internet of Things (IoT), and a focus on energy efficiency. 

AI: The Thinking Filter 

Imagine a system that can predict and prevent equipment failures, optimize chemical dosing, and even identify emerging contaminants. AI is poised to do just that. By analyzing vast amounts of plant data, AI algorithms can learn patterns, anticipate issues, and recommend proactive maintenance. This translates to reduced downtime, improved water quality, and significant cost savings. 

AI-driven analytics also help in optimizing chemical dosing, energy use, and overall plant performance. By harnessing AI, water treatment facilities can achieve higher efficiency and reliability, ensuring consistent water quality. 

The Power of “Things” Talking 

The IoT connects devices and systems, allowing for real-time monitoring and control of water treatment processes. IoT-enabled sensors can collect data on various parameters such as water quality, flow rates, and equipment performance. This data is transmitted to a centralized system where it can be analyzed and remotely adjusted instantly. IoT technology enhances visibility into the treatment process, enabling prompt fixes and reducing the risk of contamination or system failures. Moreover, this remote monitoring capabilities allow for better resource management and operational flexibility. 

Going Green for a Sustainable Future 

Energy consumption is a significant concern in water treatment. Integrating energy-efficient technologies can lead to substantial cost savings and environmental benefits. Here’s where AI and IoT come together. Innovations such as high-efficiency pumps, variable frequency drives, and renewable energy sources like solar and wind power are becoming increasingly viable. By analyzing energy usage patterns, AI can suggest adjustments to pumps and other equipment, minimizing energy waste further.  

Implementing energy recovery systems, such as using biogas from wastewater treatment for power generation, can further reduce the carbon footprint of water treatment plants. Embracing these technologies not only lowers operational costs but also supports sustainability goals. 

Practical Steps for Water Professionals 

The future may seem daunting, but you can embrace it with these steps: 

  • Upskill: Familiarize yourself with AI and IoT concepts. Several online courses and industry workshops cater to water professionals. Equip your team with the skills to interpret and act on data insights from AI and IoT systems. 
  • Pilot Projects: Start small. Implement an AI-powered pilot program for specific tasks, like leak detection or chemical optimization. This allows you to assess the technology’s potential before large-scale integration. 
  • Network: Connect with peers and industry leaders who are on the same trajectory. Share experiences and learn from their implementations. 

The future of water treatment is intelligent, interconnected, and sustainable. It’s a future filled with exciting possibilities, and water professionals who embrace these advancements will be at the forefront of ensuring clean water for generations to come. 

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

By
Melissa Diehl
-

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

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

By
Melissa Diehl
-

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 

By
Melissa Diehl
-
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. 

EPA Imposes First Limits on PFAS

By
Nate Talley
-
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

Spiked: Pharmaceuticals and Illicit Drugs in Water Systems

By
Nate Talley
-
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

“Forever Chemicals” Proving to be Regulatory Nightmare

By
Nate Talley
-
Analyst testing for PFAS in river

Much like the chemicals themselves, PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) continue to be a never-ending regulatory nightmare for agencies and states that wish to ban or limit the use of these substances. Known as “forever chemicals” due to their persistent nature in the environment, PFAS pose serious health risks, including cancer, liver disease, and fetal complications. These substances are found in a wide range of consumer products, from food packaging to firefighting foams, making their regulation a critical concern for water treatment professionals and public health advocates alike.

A notable case involved the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) attempt to ban plastic containers manufactured by Houston-based Inhance, which were found to be contaminated with PFOA, a toxic PFAS compound. Despite the EPA’s December prohibition, the conservative fifth circuit court of appeals overturned the ban, citing that the EPA could not regulate the containers under the statute it used. The court’s decision highlighted the challenges in regulating existing industrial processes as “new” when they’ve been in use for decades. This ruling underscores the complexities of implementing PFAS regulations and the legal interpretations that can stall protective measures.

In Colorado, efforts to strengthen PFAS legislation by 2028 have been met with enthusiasm from environmental litigators and concern for public health. Senate Bill 24-081 aims to extend the ban on class B firefighting foam to other PFAS-containing products, reflecting the growing awareness of PFAS as a major public health threat. Environmental Litigation Group associate attorney Yahn Olson highlighted the difficulty of filtering PFAS from groundwater, emphasizing the chemicals’ association with severe health conditions. This legislative push in Colorado is part of a broader move towards stringent PFAS limits, with the EPA considering setting the threshold at 4 parts per trillion, signaling a shift towards recognizing any PFAS exposure as potentially harmful.

On a positive note, 3M, a Minnesota-based chemical manufacturer, has agreed to begin payments this summer to many U.S. public drinking water systems as part of a multi-billion-dollar settlement over PFAS contamination. This settlement, approved by the U.S. District Court in Charleston, South Carolina, signifies a significant step towards addressing PFAS contamination in drinking water. The payouts, ranging from $10.5 billion to $12.5 billion through 2036, reflect the company’s commitment to exit all PFAS manufacturing by the end of 2025. This move by 3M could serve as a precedent for other manufacturers, encouraging more comprehensive solutions to the PFAS challenge.

These developments illustrate the multifaceted approach states are taking to regulate PFAS, from legal battles to legislative reforms and settlements. Despite the challenges, the persistence of regulators, litigators, and lawmakers in addressing PFAS contamination highlights a collective effort to mitigate the environmental and health impacts of these hazardous chemicals. For water treatment professionals, these cases provide valuable insights into the evolving regulatory landscape and the ongoing efforts to ensure the safety of public water supplies from PFAS contamination.

Resources:
The Guardian
Longmont Leader
CBS News

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