Words by Tess Becker
Poor drinking water has plagued many US cities over recent years. The most infamous case occurred in Flint, Michigan, where the water was so polluted that many people in the city fell ill. There have since been concerted efforts to clean up Flint’s water. But the problem continues to pop up around the country. To resolve this, a new Harvard study could incentivize greater efforts to clean water sources.
The study shows that regulations to reduce lead and copper contamination in drinking water generate $9 billion from health benefits per year. This means that if the government steps in to help clean up the water, not only will people be healthier, but it will also save money for the public health sector.
“The benefits include better health for children and adults; non-health benefits in the form of reduced corrosion damage to water infrastructure and appliances; and improved equity in the US, as lead-contaminated drinking water disproportionately impacts low-income and minority populations on whom health damages have more severe effects,” said co-lead author Ronnie Levin, instructor in the Department of Environmental Health.
Charity check-in
At Smiley Movement, we like to elevate the work of charities across the world. Here are three charities whose causes align with the themes in this article.
Beacon Food Forest. This is one of the largest food forests in the country. Find out more and support them here.
Cultural Survival. They are an indigenous-led nonprofit focused on empowering indigenous Americans and helping the planet. Find out more.
American Forests. A conservation organization focused on preserving and protecting American forests. Support them here.
This article aligns with the UN SDG Good Health and Wellbeing.
