The importance of safe and reliable drinking water is paramount for public health, yet some communities across the globe are struggling to access high-quality drinking water, posing significant risks to public health. A recent report by the Productivity Commission highlights the urgent need for universal access to safe drinking water by governments to safeguard the health and well-being of their populations. In Australia, the National Water Reform 2024 report emphasizes the necessity for all governments to commit to providing universal access to a safe and reliable supply of drinking water. While most Australians enjoy high-quality drinking water services, some remote communities, especially those with high Indigenous populations, face challenges due to poor drinking water quality. Contaminants such as excessive hardness, turbidity, fluoride, iron, and manganese pose serious health risks, leading to gastrointestinal diseases and other health issues. The report also addresses the vulnerabilities of Australia’s drinking water supplies to extreme weather events, exacerbated by climate change. Heatwaves, droughts, bushfires, cyclones, and floods can threaten drinking water sources, increasing the risk of water quality incidents. Preventive measures such as strict management of drinking water catchments and enhanced incident response procedures are crucial to safeguard water quality. Moreover, affordability remains a significant barrier to improving water quality and safety. The report highlights the importance of considering how improvements in water services can be funded while maintaining affordability for all customers. In Australia’s capital cities, the concept of ‘postage stamp pricing’ ensures that all customers pay the same rates for drinking water, although challenges persist in providing equitable access in regional towns and remote communities due to the lack of cross-subsidization. In the United States, advances in drinking water infrastructure and treatment have significantly enhanced water quality and reliability. However, the presence of chemical contaminants such as arsenic, disinfection by-products, lead, nitrate, and per- and polyfluorinated alkyl substances continues to pose health risks even in regulated drinking water systems. Understanding the risk profiles of these contaminants is essential for developing effective mitigation strategies and ensuring the safety of drinking water resources. Disinfection by-products, emerging contaminants from hydraulic fracturing activities, and lead contamination from aging infrastructure are among the key challenges faced by US drinking water systems. The article emphasizes the need for comprehensive monitoring, rigorous enforcement of drinking water standards, and investments in upgrading water infrastructure to address these issues. In conclusion, the provision of universal access to safe and reliable drinking water remains a critical global health goal. Addressing challenges such as water quality management, affordability, and infrastructure improvements is essential to ensure the well-being of communities worldwide. By prioritizing investments in water quality and safety, governments can mitigate risks and safeguard public health for generations to come.
