Drugs in Drinking Water: Alliance for the Great Lakes

Search:

Drugs in Drinking Water

Lake Michigan water testing near water intake pipes for Chicago and Milwaukee reveal low levels of pharmaceutical compounds. Findings of these and other drug-related pollutants in U.S. waters isn't new, but their prevalence in drinking water is an emerging concern as technology is able to detect lower and lower contaminant levels.

The low levels of these compounds and the limited research to date lead most experts to determine the water is safe to drink. Yet the rapidly expanding use of pharmaceuticals, coupled with the growing knowledge of their potential health risks to people and wildlife, make this form of Great Lakes pollution a critical issue.

Prioritizing, Preventing Great Lakes Contaminants

A new Alliance report says it’s critical to start identifying chemicals in the Great Lakes that pose the greatest threat to the health of people and wildlife.

Photo: Lloyd DeGrane

see report >

The Alliance seeks to curb drug pollution at the source, supports further research into the dangers these drugs pose once released, and calls for more research into improving the ability of sewage treatment systems to remove pharmaceutical compounds -- as most treatment plants lack the ability to address this form of pollution.

What you can do:

Find information on drug take-back efforts across the country on this national website. more >

See the Alliance's August 2011 report: "Emerging Contaminant Threats and the Great Lakes" more >