Slanted and Disenchanted

Anticipating population growth and future droughts, many water systems with supply constraints have implemented potable reuse or are studying its potential. The technology operations well understood, once conservation efficiency efforts maximized, may be the most feasible option for communities. As full-scale has become a reality over past 20 years, there been campaigns to engage public both against it. And while is now generally accepted even considered sustainable in some cases, it just can't catch break media. It's common find emotion-inducing language headlines, such as term toilet-to-tap—e.g., “Ready not, ‘toilet tap’ recycled wastewater coming spigot near you” (The Kansas City Star, May 2021). great when news outlets explore an important topic like this, but example from Star begins fictional dystopian futures ends by comparing drinking “wearing Hitler's sweater”—not helpful images build case reuse. Toilet-to-tap catchy—poetic even—but professionals should cringe they see because it's not correct reinforces wrong ideas about Unfortunately, easy mentally connect toilet tap, that moment of shock disgust, false completely negative understanding entrenched. truth multiple treatment barriers, natural engineered, goes through on path much more complex than simple notion tap. But research continues make progress field, reporters using toilet-to-tap headline stand poison acceptance safe strategy. When you “toilet tap” headline, know highly slanted trick hook readers. However, also plants doubt confusion around safety really no cause. Where these stories appear, follow up sources relay potential value discuss unintentional naturally occurs Negative attacks can erode support, consistent, sustained, comprehensive outreach key, so your community keep discussion focused what matters. This month's Journal AWWA features articles source protection, disinfection, apprenticeships industry. If interested submitting article, contact me at [email protected].