A Call for a Unified Database to Address Exposure Disparities in the United States.

Abstract

United States (US) drinking water quality is federally regulated under the Safe Drinking Water Act (SDWA) with the goal of ensuring clean, safe drinking water for the entire population. However, siting of pollution point sources in historically redlined communities with lower socioeconomic status and higher proportions of people of color adversely affects drinking water quality. Prior studies show higher concentrations of a suite of contaminants in small PWS, PWS in rural areas, and PWS serving greater proportions of people of color. Drinking water crises in Flint, Michigan (ca. 2014) and Jackson, Mississippi (ca. 2022) are visible examples of a chronic and widespread pattern of elevated exposures in certain communities. Comprehensive state monitoring data produced as part of compliance with the SDWA are presently not accessible to the public. Further, metadata on water treatment technology and sociodemographic composition of customers served are lacking. Here we argue that improving data transparency is essential for spearheading action to address exposure disparities. We propose the creation of a unified national public database on water quality, treatment technology, and customer metadata with accompanying visualizations for the public that leverage new AI tools. Public action to address exposure disparities gained momentum over the last 30 years but was halted abruptly in 2025. Therefore, new partnerships are urgently needed to continue the pursuit of environmental justice.