The Urgent Need for Water and Wastewater Infrastructure Upgrades: A Response to the ASCE 2025 Report
In a recent statement, Justin Ladner, President of Pennsylvania American Water, addressed the grades of C- for water and D+ for water and wastewater in the American Society of Civil Engineers’ (ASCE) 2025 Report Card for America’s Infrastructure. The report revealed no change or improvement over the last four years, emphasizing the urgent need for upgrades to America’s drinking water and wastewater infrastructure.
Impact on Individuals
This stagnant state of water and wastewater infrastructure can have significant consequences for individuals. According to the ASCE report, nearly one-third of the US population is served by water systems that violated health-based standards in 2019. Furthermore, more than 1.3 million homes and businesses experienced water main breaks in 2019, leading to service disruptions and potential property damage.
- Increased health risks: Exposure to contaminated water can lead to various health issues, including gastrointestinal illness, skin irritation, and even developmental problems in children.
- Higher water bills: Old and inefficient infrastructure leads to increased costs for water treatment and distribution, which can result in higher bills for consumers.
- Frequent service disruptions: Old and deteriorating pipes can lead to frequent water main breaks and service disruptions, causing inconvenience and potential property damage.
Impact on the World
The consequences of outdated water and wastewater infrastructure are not limited to individual households. The ASCE report highlights that the US economy could lose over $1 trillion in productivity and $2.5 trillion in sales over the next 20 years if no action is taken to upgrade our infrastructure. Additionally, the United Nations has identified access to clean water and sanitation as a fundamental human right, making this a global issue.
- Economic consequences: The loss of productivity and sales due to inadequate water and wastewater infrastructure can have far-reaching economic consequences, including job losses and reduced competitiveness.
- Environmental impact: Leaking pipes can contaminate groundwater, harming both the environment and local communities. Additionally, inefficient water distribution and wastewater treatment can contribute to water scarcity and pollution.
- Social implications: Access to clean water and sanitation is essential for maintaining public health and ensuring social stability. Inadequate infrastructure can lead to social unrest and instability, particularly in developing countries.
Conclusion
The ASCE 2025 Report Card for America’s Infrastructure underscores the urgent need for upgrades to our water and wastewater infrastructure. The consequences of inaction extend far beyond individual households, impacting the economy, environment, and society as a whole. It is crucial that governments, organizations, and individuals prioritize investments in infrastructure upgrades to ensure a safer, healthier, and more productive future for all.
By addressing the challenges faced by our water and wastewater infrastructure, we can not only improve the quality of life for millions of Americans but also contribute to a more sustainable and resilient world.
