Repeal of Clean Water Regulation- Why It’s Important and How It Affects You
The battle over how much power the federal government should have in regulating the wetlands and tributaries that feed into the nation’s largest rivers has played out across the country for years. Back in February of this year, the Environmental Protection Agency and Department of the Army finalized a rule to repeal the 2015 Clean Water Rule and re-codify the regulatory text defining “waters of the United States” (WOTUS) that existed prior to 2015. It can be hard to stay up to date on new and existing acts being discussed every day with clean water regulation, but taking the time to research these regulations can help you stay informed and remain in the loop come election time.
Why is it important?
The repeal of the clean water act means industrial pollution will be able to flow more freely into waterways. The efforts put forth to weaken existing protections on waterways have focused heavily on eliminating restrictions on fossil fuel pollution, including coal-fired power plants, automobile tailpipes, and methane emissions, but have also touched on asbestos and chemical hazards like pesticides. If you’re interested in further educating yourself on the back and forth changes to the clean water act from 1972, the United States Environmental Protection Agency website is a powerful tool to arm yourself with the knowledge of the act’s history.
How does it affect you?
An immediate effect of the clean water repeal is that polluters will no longer need a permit to discharge potentially harmful substances into many streams and wetlands. But the measure, which is expected to take effect in a matter of weeks, has implications far beyond the pollution that will now be allowed to flow freely into waterways. Critics say the rollback will speed the conversion of wetlands and headwaters, which provide critical habitat for wildlife and support the nation’s drinking-water supply. In short, the repeal of this act will increase the likelihood of polluted water and result in a decrease in wildlife habitats.
With our water supply under attack by large and sometimes irresponsible companies, having a clean water supply is essential. Aside from having a functioning water softener to remove unwanted mineral deposits from your family’s drinking water, there are additional options for water filtration in your home. Just one of the many options for your home or office space is called an EcoWater Reverse Osmosis System. Featuring a carbon sediment filter, a thin film composite membrane, and a post-filter work to transform your water into delicious bottled quality. This system filters your water in three stages while also enhancing the flavor of your water, coffee, or tea all without the plastic bottles. Newer models such as the HERO 375 even have a smart tracking system so you’ll always know when it’s time to change your filter! Do some research and consider adding a smart filtration system to your home today.