As New Jersey continues to endure a prolonged drought warning, communities across the state face increased risks not only from water scarcity but from the dangerous contaminants lurking in our water sources. A recent report from the Environmental Working Group (EWG) has shed light on the presence of toxic chemicals in New Jersey’s waterways and drinking water. Among the most concerning are the chemicals known as PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances), which have been linked to severe health issues, including cancer and reproductive problems. More than 143 million Americans are exposed to PFAS in their drinking water, from newborns to adults. Check by zip code here.

This alarming report comes at a time of uncertainty for federal water protections. The pause on the landmark PFAS regulations by the current administration places vulnerable communities at further risk. The rollback of nearly $1 billion to assist states in mitigating PFAS contamination could have dire consequences for public health.

In New Jersey, the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) has taken steps to address these concerns by implementing Maximum Contaminant Levels (MCLs) for several harmful substances, including PFAS, and expanding testing requirements. More must be done, especially as industries continue to discharge toxic chemicals into our revered waterways without sufficient federal regulation.

The EWG’s report also highlights a variety of other contaminants in New Jersey's water, from volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and nitrates to heavy metals like arsenic and chromium-6. These pollutants pose serious health risks, especially to our most vulnerable populations--children, the elderly, and low-income communities.

It is a collective responsibility to protect our water and ensure that every person, regardless of their circumstances, has access to clean, safe, and affordable drinking water. Waterspirit calls especially on all people of spirit and faith to rise with moral courage, speak truth to power, and demand action and accountability from decision-makers through our Calls to Action page. May we be ever-united in defending the sacred resource of water, which sustains us all.

Let us use this moment to educate our communities about the critical importance of water, not just as a resource, but as a fundamental right. Water is life; it is our duty to safeguard it, for ourselves and for those most at risk.

Join Waterspirit in Taking Action:

Demand that lawmakers prioritize the protection of our water and enforce stringent regulations on toxic chemicals.
Support local and state efforts to hold polluters accountable, including those responsible for contaminating our water with PFAS and other harmful substances.
Educate your neighbors and community members about the importance of water quality and the risks posed by ongoing pollution.

Visit our Calls to Action Page and amplify widely! Get trained with us as a volunteer. Together, we are making a difference.