California American Water Responds to ASCE 2025 Report Card: Urgent Action Needed for Stagnant Drinking Water and Wastewater Infrastructure
SAN DIEGO – In response to the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) 2025 Report Card for America’s Infrastructure, Kevin Tilden, President of California American Water, issued the following statement:
“The ASCE 2025 Report Card reveals no change or improvement over the last four years – America’s drinking water and wastewater infrastructure is stagnant,” Tilden said. “The Report Card highlights the urgent need for significant investment and innovation to ensure the safety, reliability, and sustainability of our nation’s water and wastewater systems. At California American Water, we are committed to working collaboratively with policymakers, regulators, and community partners to address these challenges and meet the needs of our customers and communities.”
Impact on Individuals
The ASCE report card indicates that the nation’s drinking water and wastewater infrastructure is in dire need of improvement. This means that many Americans, including those in California, may continue to experience issues with water quality, reliability, and affordability. Some potential impacts on individuals include:
- Health Risks: Old or poorly maintained water and wastewater infrastructure can lead to health risks, such as waterborne illnesses and exposure to contaminants.
- Cost: Many individuals and families may face increased water bills due to the need for costly repairs and upgrades to infrastructure.
- Convenience: Disruptions to water and wastewater services, such as boil water advisories and sewage backups, can be inconvenient and disrupt daily life.
Impact on the World
The condition of America’s drinking water and wastewater infrastructure is not just an issue for individuals and communities, but also has global implications. Some potential impacts on the world include:
- Environment: Leaking pipes and inadequate wastewater treatment can lead to water pollution and negative impacts on aquatic ecosystems.
- Economy: The cost of repairing and upgrading infrastructure is significant, and the lack of investment in water and wastewater infrastructure can hinder economic growth.
- Public Health: Poor water quality and inadequate wastewater treatment can lead to the spread of waterborne diseases and other health risks, particularly in developing countries.
Conclusion
The ASCE 2025 Report Card highlights the urgent need for significant investment and innovation to address the challenges facing America’s drinking water and wastewater infrastructure. The consequences of inaction extend far beyond individuals and communities, impacting the environment, economy, and public health on a global scale. California American Water, and other water utilities, are committed to working collaboratively with policymakers, regulators, and community partners to address these challenges and find sustainable solutions for the future.
“At California American Water, we believe that investing in the future of our water and wastewater infrastructure is an investment in the health, safety, and economic prosperity of our communities,” Tilden said. “We are committed to working with our partners to find innovative solutions and ensure that our customers have access to safe, reliable, and affordable water and wastewater services.”
