According to a report by the Environment Working Group (EWG) (news story by Robert Coleman), the drinking water supply for nearly everyone in America contains levels of chemicals that exceed at least one health-protective guideline. Fortunately, there are things you can do to protect yourself.
Verify Your Supply
The EWG has a Tap Water Database that is available to the public. You can enter your zip code for a list of water suppliers in your area. Click on your supplier for a drinking water quality report that includes the number of contaminants both compliant and noncompliant with health-protective guidelines.
Don’t Buy Bottled Water
Whether or not you find that your drinking water supply is contaminated, don’t buy bottled water. Bottled water is substantially more expensive than tap water, but consuming it is risky just the same. If what you are actually drinking in a bottle of water is filtered tap water, you’re paying way too much. There is also the risk of contamination by chemicals from the plastic bottle.
Consider investing in a Water Filter
If you are interested in cleaner tap water, purchasing a water filter might be the way to go. You can use EWG’s search engine to search for a filter by contaminant it is certified to remove. They also have a filter technology explainer which will help you make an informed decision suitable to your needs.
– Sabrina Gonzales