AI Is Parched and Pulling from the Same Wells

Training large AI models like GPT-3 can evaporate up to 5.4 million liters of water. That’s not a metaphor. The water is literally lost, used to cool hyperscale data centers or indirectly consumed through thermoelectric power plants. Every Studio Ghibli-style image generated, every experimental chat response from an AI, adds to this invisible burden. 

Most data centers rely on water-cooled systems. These setups consume potable water because it reduces corrosion and microbial growth, making maintenance cheaper and systems more reliable. But from a sustainability standpoint, they’re a nightmare. Even “clean energy” doesn’t solve the problem if the cooling infrastructure behind it remains water-intensive. 

You Can’t Manage What You Don’t Measure

Unlike carbon emissions, which are often disclosed in sustainability reports or model cards, AI’s water consumption data is mostly absent. This blind spot stifles innovation and policy. For those in water treatment, this presents both a challenge and an opportunity: pushing for accountability in tech sectors that are increasingly competing for the same resource you manage daily. 

The manufacturing of AI’s hardware is equally problematic. Semiconductor fabs consume ultra-pure water (UPW) by the millions of gallons, with recycling rates that rarely exceed 50%. Worse, this water often exits the system contaminated with heavy metals and solvents, hazards that eventually end up at your facilities. 

Dry Cooling Isn’t the Silver Bullet

Some data centers are experimenting with dry cooling to reduce water use, but these systems require significantly more energy, potentially increasing the overall carbon footprint. That’s the catch: what’s good for water may be bad for air. The “follow the sun” method of training AI models, timing workloads to locations with renewable energy, is now being challenged by a new idea: “follow the shade,” shifting training to regions and times with cooler temperatures and lower water stress. 

But this raises logistical questions. Will companies redesign their server deployment based on regional hydrology? Will new data centers be located based on aquifer levels instead of tax incentives? Until transparency becomes mandatory, water treatment professionals remain in the dark, left to deal with downstream effects. 

The Water Cost of a Pretty Picture

Here’s the kicker: much of this water is spent on aesthetics. AI-generated art and viral content have no critical function beyond engagement. That doesn’t make it worthless, but it makes its water cost far more controversial. When a Midjourney image costs the same water as a glass of clean drinking water in a drought-stricken region, priorities need rethinking. 

For you, the implications are tangible. Increased regional water demand may not come from agriculture or population growth, but from server farms. Aging infrastructure and limited capacity in many municipalities mean that even moderate industrial demand shifts can push treatment systems past their limits. You’ll need to plan for this — if not with capital investments, then at least in operational forecasting. 

Time for a Seat at the Table

Water treatment professionals need a stronger voice in the AI sustainability conversation. Advocating for water transparency metrics alongside carbon reporting is step one. Engaging with policymakers on zoning, permitting, and environmental assessments for new data centers is step two. And long-term, the sector must push for hydrosustainable design principles (not just greener AI, but water-smarter AI). 

Microsoft and Google’s “water positive by 2030” pledges sound promising, but they are vague without detailed benchmarks. If 99% of a tech company’s water footprint is in its supply chain, then offsetting office water use isn’t much more than greenwashing. 

Final Take

While AI might promise to solve climate issues or optimize utilities, its own operational model is still heavily extractive. For those of you working every day to treat, manage, and preserve this precious resource, understanding this dynamic is urgent.  

The next major environmental front involves more than just emissions. Evaporation from data-driven infrastructure is quickly emerging as a critical factor. Staying ahead of these developments means treating digital infrastructure the same way we treat any other large-scale water consumer: with scrutiny, regulation, and sustainable planning. 

SOURCES: Washington Post, Smart Water Magazine 

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For wastewater treatment professionals, this research underscores the growing threat of microplastics to biological treatment systems and highlights an urgent need for mitigation strategies. Let’s dive in. 

Why Aerobic Granular Sludge Matters 

AGS technology has been gaining traction as a more efficient alternative to conventional activated sludge. It forms dense, self-aggregating microbial granules that offer superior settleability, better resilience to toxic compounds, and enhanced nutrient removal. Because of these advantages, many wastewater treatment plants have been exploring AGS as a way to improve performance while reducing energy and chemical costs. 

However, the long-term stability of AGS depends on the integrity of extracellular polymeric substances (EPS), a complex mix of proteins and polysaccharides that help maintain the granule structure. Any disruption to EPS composition can weaken the granules, making the system less effective at treating wastewater. 

How PET Microplastics Disrupt AGS Structure 

The study examined four granular sequencing batch reactors (GSBRs) exposed to increasing concentrations of PET microplastics. The results showed significant structural changes in the AGS as microplastic levels increased.  

Higher concentrations of PET microplastics led to an increase in smaller granules. This suggests that PET microplastics may be physically breaking apart granules or interfering with microbial aggregation. EPS composition also shifted in response to microplastic exposure, with polysaccharide levels generally declining while protein concentrations increased. The PN/PS ratio rose, making the sludge more hydrophobic and potentially affecting its ability to settle properly. These changes indicate that AGS may become more fragile over time when exposed to microplastics, increasing the risk of biomass washout and reducing overall treatment efficiency. 

Why This Matters  

Microplastics are already entering wastewater treatment plants in significant amounts through household and industrial discharges. Studies show that WWTPs retain a large fraction of incoming microplastics, with much of it accumulating in sludge. This new research raises concerns that prolonged exposure to microplastics could reduce the performance of AGS systems by destabilizing sludge and interfering with microbial function. 

In practical terms, this could lead to more frequent system upsets and granule disintegration, reducing overall process stability. Nutrient removal efficiency may decline as microbial communities are disrupted, potentially impacting water quality. Additionally, sludge management could become more challenging if microplastics interfere with dewaterability or alter sludge properties, making disposal and processing more difficult. 

How Can Plants Respond? 

While microplastics are a systemic issue requiring policy intervention, wastewater treatment plants can take steps to minimize their impact on AGS systems: 

1. Pretreatment Upgrades 

• Installing advanced filtration systems (e.g., membrane bioreactors or fine screens) can help remove microplastics before they reach biological treatment stages. 

2. Optimizing Sludge Management 

• Understanding how microplastics interact with sludge can help adjust operational strategies to maintain granule stability. 

• Frequent monitoring of EPS composition and granule size distribution can provide early warning signs of microplastic-related disruptions. 

3. Collaboration on Microplastic Reduction 

• Partnering with regulatory agencies and industries to reduce microplastic pollution at the source can prevent these particles from reaching wastewater treatment plants in the first place. 

• Public awareness campaigns encouraging the reduction of plastic waste and microplastic-shedding products (like synthetic fibers) can also contribute. 

This study provides clear evidence that microplastics pose a direct threat to biological wastewater treatment systems. PET microplastics, in particular, can alter sludge structure, disrupt microbial communities, and compromise treatment performance in AGS reactors. As the microplastic contamination challenge continues to mount, understanding its effects on AGS and other biological treatment processes will be critical for maintaining stable and efficient wastewater treatment operations for the future. 

SOURCES: Water 

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The post Microplastics Are Undermining Wastewater Treatment: New Study Reveals the Risks to Aerobic Granular Sludge appeared first on Water Treatment 411.

Climate Change and Shrinking Resources 

Rising temperatures are increasing evaporation rates from rivers, reservoirs, and streams in the border region, compounded by erratic precipitation patterns, diminishing snowmelt, and prolonged droughts. The two main rivers in the region, the Colorado River and the Rio Grande, are among the most water-stressed in the world. 

For water treatment facilities, the decline in river flows means a greater reliance on alternative sources like groundwater and reclaimed wastewater. However, these sources come with their own complications, including contamination, over-extraction, and logistical hurdles. 

Overexploited and Polluted Aquifers 

At least 28 aquifers cross the U.S.-Mexico border, providing vital water for agricultural, industrial, and municipal use. These underground reservoirs are increasingly relied upon as surface water dwindles, but many are being overexploited faster than they can recharge. Adding to the strain, pollution from agricultural runoff, untreated waste, and industrial discharges is contaminating these aquifers, making them more expensive and difficult to treat. 

Addressing these challenges will require improved monitoring systems, advanced treatment technologies, and cross-border collaboration. Stricter controls on pollution, investments in aquifer recharge projects, and innovative filtration systems could help ensure the long-term viability of these resources. 

Growing Populations, Rising Demand 

The population along the U.S.-Mexico border is booming, with roughly 30 million people already living within 100 miles of the border. This number is expected to double in the next 30 years, significantly increasing municipal and industrial water demand. For example, in Texas’ lower Rio Grande Valley, municipal water use is projected to more than double by 2040. 

To meet the rising demand, scaling up treatment capacity will be essential. Solutions such as desalination, wastewater recycling, and advanced membrane technologies can help meet the growing demand. Additionally, adopting water conservation practices, like leak detection systems and efficient irrigation techniques, can help reduce unnecessary waste. 

Pollution Challenges 

Both the Colorado River and Rio Grande are heavily polluted. Agricultural runoff introduces fertilizers and pesticides into the water, fueling algae blooms and degrading water quality. Industrial and municipal sources add heavy metals, chemicals, and untreated waste, particularly on the Mexican side of the border, where many wastewater treatment plants face operational challenges. 

Addressing pollution will require a combination of infrastructure upgrades and regulatory enforcement. Water treatment facilities must adapt to handle higher pollutant loads, while cross-border agreements must include stricter environmental safeguards. Integrating advanced nutrient removal systems and chemical filtration technologies can help improve water quality downstream. 

The Road Ahead 

While the U.S.-Mexico border water crisis presents significant challenges, it also creates opportunities for innovation. Here’s how water treatment professionals can contribute: 

1. Deploy cutting-edge systems like reverse osmosis, advanced oxidation processes, and bioreactors to treat increasingly contaminated water sources. 

2. Invest in systems that recover valuable nutrients and minerals, such as phosphorus and nitrates, from wastewater streams. 

3. Upgrade treatment plants to handle fluctuating water quality and rising demand. Incorporate energy-efficient designs to reduce costs. 

4. Partner with municipalities, industries, and governments on both sides of the border to share knowledge, technology, and funding. 

Water scarcity in the U.S.-Mexico border region is a transboundary crisis that requires collective action. For water treatment, this means stepping up to deliver innovative solutions that address growing demand, pollution, and aging infrastructure. Are your operations up to the challenge? 

SOURCES: The Conversation, Journal of Borderland Studies, Climate.gov, The Conversation  

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The post The Other Border Battle: Water Scarcity on the U.S.-Mexico Line appeared first on Water Treatment 411.

• Lithium in well water may affect health, both positive and negative. 

• There are NO regulations for lithium in well water yet, but the EPA is watching it. 

• The study shows higher lithium levels in western and southwestern states. 

• They created a tool to estimate lithium levels in well water across the US. 

What this means for you: 

• People may ask you about lithium in their well water. 

• It’s good to be aware of emerging contaminants like lithium. 

SOURCE: Smart Water Magazine 

The post Heads Up: New Info on Lithium in Well Water  appeared first on Water Treatment 411.

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. 

The post AI Offers Promising New Weapon in Fight Against Harmful Algal Blooms 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.

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. 

The post The Future of Flow: AI, IoT, and Greener Water Treatment  appeared first on Water Treatment 411.

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

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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 

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