While the majority of Americans take high-quality drinking water and sanitation access for granted, millions of the most vulnerable people in the country— low-income people in rural areas, people of color, tribal communities, immigrants—have fallen through the cracks.
A recent study conducted by the US Water Alliance found that more than two million Americans live without running water and basic indoor plumbing, and many more without sanitation. “This is the reality for people living in the United States—right here and right now. While the majority of Americans take high-quality drinking water and sanitation access for granted, millions of the most vulnerable people in the country— low-income people in rural areas, people of color, tribal communities, immigrants—have fallen through the cracks. Their communities did not receive adequate water and wastewater infrastructure when the nation made historic investments in these systems in past decades. That initial lack of investment created a hidden water and sanitation crisis that continues to threaten the health and wellbeing of millions of people today.”
While the US has already made great progress in providing clean drinking water and sanitation, many people still do not have this privilege. This report outlines a plan of action to ensure equitable water access for all Americans and highlights what various communities have already done to ensure this for their residents.
