North Carolina leads the nation in households relying on private wells for drinking water, but a new study highlight concerning disparities in well testing and treatment. Researchers find that low-income, BIPOC households face increased exposure to contaminants, raising health risks. The study calls for strategic efforts and community engagement to bridge the gap and ensure sustainable water quality.
Private wells provide drinking water to one in four households in North Carolina, but they fall outside the purview of the Safe Drinking Water Act, leaving them unregulated and untested for contaminants. A recent study by the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill sheds light on the alarming levels of contamination in these wells, but more importantly, reveals significant disparities in well testing and treatment based on race and income.
The research team found that despite equal levels of contamination across various areas, not everyone was equally aware of the problem. Wealthier, white households were found to have significantly higher odds of testing and treating their wells compared to low-income, BIPOC households. This disparity in testing and treatment may result in marginalized communities facing a disproportionate burden of exposure to dangerous contaminants.
Consuming contaminated water over time can have severe health consequences, including cancer, cardiovascular disease, preeclampsia, neurological disorders, elevated blood lead levels, and a higher incidence of waterborne illnesses. The lack of testing and treatment in low-income, BIPOC households may exacerbate health disparities and hinder progress toward environmental justice.
The study employed Community Engaged Research (CEnR) Strategies, involving community members in all stages of the research process. By collaborating with community-based organizations and neighborhood leaders, researchers improved recruitment in Environmental Justice (EJ) communities. Engaging EJ communities is crucial to prevent excluding marginalized and underserved populations from well water quality research.
The UNC Institute for the Environment (IE) plays a key role in developing multidisciplinary collaborations to address major environmental issues. By fostering partnerships with various academic disciplines, public and private partners, and communities, the IE aims to meet pressing environmental challenges. Through air and water research centers, community engagement initiatives, and experiential education programs, the IE creates forums for meaningful collaboration.
The research findings underscore the need for strategic efforts to increase well testing and improve treatment in communities dependent on private wells. Addressing these disparities will require policy interventions and directing resources where they are most needed. Community engagement remains essential to foster trust and inclusivity in environmental research and policy-making.
The study's revelations about racial and income disparities in private well testing serve as a wake-up call for North Carolina and beyond. Bridging the gap in well water quality is not only crucial for public health but also essential in promoting environmental justice and equality. The strategic deployment of resources, coupled with community engagement, will be instrumental in ensuring that all communities have access to safe and clean drinking water.
