Pittsburgh Downplays the Threat of Lead-Contaminated Drinking Water.

In 2017, the Water and Sewer Authority in Pittsburgh issued a warning for residents to boil their drinking water first, even for brushing teeth and washing dishes. City officials are accused of misleading residents as to the risk.

Flint Michigan’s Drinking Water Harms Children.

In 2018, when 57 of 86 Detroit public schools tested positive for elevated levels of lead, the government confirmed that children could suffer permanent brain damage, which often results in learning disabilities and violent behavior.

Lead-Contamination in Milwaukee’s Drinking Water Since 2015 Continues.

From 2015 to 2017 the children of families living in Milwaukee were testing positive for elevated levels of lead. Even after the health commissioner resigned for failing to notify the community of the risk, the “serious failure” persists.

Well Water, Too

Rural areas that receive their water from wells contain some of the most contaminated water sources. Microorganisms and toxic chemicals seep into water supplies. People are advised to use a well water testing kit regularly, as new contaminants invade groundwater with little to no oversight or enforcement.

Government

These days, most government officials agree that it’s nearly impossible to completely avoid contaminated drinking water. The biggest questions are which chemicals, and to what degree. The fact that both information and management of these systems are controlled by people in politics is a disturbing factor.

Environment

Aging water systems, contaminated runoff that introduces human and animal waste, and industrial chemicals are just three of the actors influencing drinking water quality—and the impact is growing greater every day. Chemical spills, toxic substances, people living more densely; the depth of the problem is yet to be fully realized.