Lead contamination has long been recognized as a health hazard, particularly for the young. But a new study asserts that the extent of the problem is far bigger than previously thought, with one in three children worldwide – about 800 million in all – threatened by unacceptably high lead levels in their body. … more
Historic wildfires raging from California to Colorado are weakening watersheds and setting the stage for deadly mudslides and flooding and, in some places, threatening to poison critical water supplies… more
Humans Consume 39,000-52,000 Microplastics a Year Health Effects May Include Reproductive and Digestive Issues The rising concern around microplastics’ effect on water quality and human health has accelerated after a new study estimated humans consume 39,000 – 52,000 microplastics a year. According to the study, individuals that consume the recommended amount of tap water could … more
How Do Microplastics Enter the Water Supply? Microplastics are small pieces of plastic less than five millimeters in length and represent a serious threat to the safety of our water. Microplastics release toxic chemicals, are consumed by both people and animals, and are prevalent throughout North America’s water infrastructure. How does all this plastic find … more
4 Ways Contaminants Penetrate a Building’s Water Supply In North America, the benzene, toluene, ethylbenzene and xylene (BTEX) hydrocarbon group represents a main source of groundwater contamination. Its ability to permeate many common piping materials makes it especially difficult to protect against, which can be concerning considering BTEX is an established carcinogen. The Environmental Protection Agency has … more
The Rise and Fall of Lead Piping: A Brief History Lead piping was used in almost every major U.S. city for many plumbing applications in 1900, including to transport drinking water. Millions of lead pipes are still in in use across the country. As demonstrated by Flint, Michigan; Milwaukee, Wisconsin; Newark, New Jersey and many other communities, … more