Funding The Fight Against PFAS And Lead In Drinking Water

By Katie Brenneman

An overview of funding opportunities for water utilities to meet new and upcoming compliance objectives, as well as technology considerations to reduce further contamination.

Safe drinking water is a right for all individuals. Unfortunately, access to clean drinking water is challenging due to the presence of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) and lead, which pose significant health threats to the public. Also known as “forever chemicals,” PFAS have a lasting environmental impact due to their persistent nature. Lead, a toxic metal, is found in water systems worldwide; immediate action is required to address and remove it. The financial challenges of upgrading infrastructure to meet regulations and eradicate these pollutants are substantial, and this obstacle often prevents governments, businesses, and organizations from cleaning up drinking water systems.

This article offers guidance to water utilities seeking support for the expenses associated with PFAS and lead removal, including exploring grants, state assistance programs, and private funding opportunities. Furthermore, it will explore how manufacturing companies can significantly reduce PFAS in waterbodies through advanced machine learning and predictive maintenance technologies.

Federal Grants And Resources

A range of financial resources and grants are available to support the remediation of water infrastructure and public drinking water systems. Here are some options for water utilities and municipalities to supplement support for cleaner water systems.

The Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act
In 2021, Congress signed the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act¹ (IIJA) into law, allocating $50 billion to repair and clean water infrastructures. In particular, the IIJA includes funds for:

• Reauthorizing grant programs for the development of green stormwater infrastructure programs and wastewater treatment systems;
• Addressing aging infrastructure, including water recycling and reuse, drought contingency plans, and water storage;
• Enabling lead pipe replacement to remove and replace lead service pipes, upgrading water storage facilities, and improving water distribution;
• Advocating for affordability and equity in water infrastructure serving disadvantaged or rural communities struggling to afford water system improvements.

The law explicitly funds the remediation of pollutants such as PFAS and lead from drinking water systems. The IIJA protects public health and builds healthier communities by improving water quality.

Municipalities and water utilities can apply for support for water infrastructure remediation projects through the Clean Water State Revolving Fund, FEMA Hazard Mitigation programs, or the Drinking Water State Revolving Fund.

Clean Water State Revolving Fund
Another funding option for water utilities is the Clean Water State Revolving Fund² (CWSRF), a federal-state partnership offering low-cost financing to communities for the following water infrastructure projects:

• Decentralized waste treatment systems
• Green infrastructure
• Municipal wastewater facilities
• Pollution control
• Stormwater runoff mitigation
• Water reuse
• Estuary protection
• Decentralized wastewater treatment systems

The CWSRF offers loans and loan guarantees, insurance, debt purchase or refinancing, SRF revenue debt guarantee, and additional subsidizations. Utilities can contact their respective state’s CWSRF program for information on how to apply.

EPA’s Drinking Water State Revolving Fund
Established in 1996, the U.S. EPA’s Drinking Water State Revolving Fund³ (DWSRF) offers another funding option for water utilities. It creates a financial assistance program to help water utilities in all 50 states achieve federally regulated health protection objectives. This fund is particularly essential for water systems that need chemical contaminants and lead removal. Utilities can apply for their respective state’s dedicated revolving loan fund, which, when repaid, goes back into the revolving fund. Under the DWSRF, states offer various forms of assistance, including:

• Loans
• Purchasing
• Refinancing
• Guaranteeing local debt
• Purchasing bond insurance

States may offer loan repayment periods of up to 30 years and interest rates ranging from zero to market rate; they can also provide customized loans to smaller or disadvantaged communities. Utilities and municipalities should consult with their DWSRF administrator for details on applying and funding requirements.

State Resources And Opportunities

In addition to federal aid, states offer programs specifically designed to assist water utilities in combating contaminants in drinking water. These programs may include grants, loans, and other financial incentives. Utilities should collaborate with their respective state health departments and environmental protection agencies to explore other state-specific funding resources. Another worthwhile funding opportunity is local governments, as some may provide funding programs in localities where water quality issues are prevalent.

Private Funding Options

Aside from federal and state assistance, water utilities can explore private funding options for water infrastructure remediation, especially projects focusing on long-term efficacy and sustainability. Environmental non-governmental organizations (NGOs), foundations, and corporate social responsibility (CSR) programs offer grants for environmental protection projects. Another viable funding option is crowdfunding platforms that raise private funds for specific community-driven projects related to water safety.

Leveraging Technology: The Role Of Manufacturing Companies

Manufacturers that produce or use PFAS contaminants that end up in drinking water can also play a vital role in minimizing the impact of these chemicals and becoming compliant with federal and state regulations. By integrating technologies such as machine learning and predictive maintenance, these manufacturing companies can minimize accidental releases or leaks of PFAS into bodies of water.

Utilizing Machine Learning For Predictive Analysis
Machine learning (ML) algorithms can analyze volumes of data from manufacturing processes to identify operational inefficiencies or potential equipment failures that could result in chemical leaks. Manufacturers using ML also learn to optimize their manufacturing processes through data-informed decision-making.

This proactive approach, combined with a pollution incident response plan⁴, enables companies to address issues before they escalate, thus preventing PFAS contamination in water sources and improving productivity and efficiency.

Adapting Predictive Maintenance Technologies
Likewise, predictive maintenance solutions⁵ help manufacturers maintain their machinery and equipment, lowering risks associated with malfunctions that may cause lead and PFAS contamination incidents. Through Internet of Things (IoT) technology and sensors, manufacturing companies can monitor the condition of storage tanks, pipelines, and other critical infrastructure elements. Predictive maintenance tech will alert manufacturers to infrastructural problems before they cause environmental damage.

Engaging With Stakeholders

For water utilities, engaging all stakeholders in clean water systems is critical in the fight against lead and PFAS contamination⁶. This engagement should not focus solely on fundraising but should also address creating partnerships with environmental groups, community organizations, regulatory bodies, and the general public. Open collaboration and communication among these parties can make the efforts to improve water quality and ensure community health more effective and far reaching.

Fighting For Clean Water For All

Addressing the challenges posed by PFAS and lead contamination in drinking water requires collective teamwork from various members, including water utilities, government entities, private sector players, and local communities. By utilizing federal and state resources, exploring additional funding opportunities, and adopting innovative technologies, water system manufacturers can prevent water contamination and provide clean water for everyone.

References:

1. https://www.congress.gov/bill/117th-congress/house-bill/3684
2. https://www.epa.gov/cwsrf
3. https://www.epa.gov/dwsrf/how-drinking-water-state-revolving-fund-works
4. https://www.themanufacturer.com/articles/new-findings-reveal-the-role-manufacturing-industry-may-be-playing-in-the-countrys-clean-water-challenges/
5. https://www.bradyid.com/resources/predictive-maintenance
6. https://www.whitehouse.gov/briefing-room/statements-releases/2023/03/14/fact-sheet-biden-harris-administration-takes-new-action-to-protect-communities-from-pfas-pollution/

About The Author

Katie Brenneman is a freelance writer and regular contributor to Water Online, covering environmental, technology, and utility management issues. She can be reached at katiebrennemanwrites@gmail.com.