Millions of lead pipes can’t be replaced without the cooperation of the people living above them.
As water utilities work toward the federal goal of replacing lead service lines by 2037, Roya Alkafaji of the Environmental Defense Fund says community trust is a prerequisite for getting the work done.
“Without resident buy-in, lead service lines are not getting out of the ground,” she says.
That means replacement programs need to reach people through trusted messengers, including faith leaders and community organizations, while making maps, data, and replacement plans accessible and easy to understand.
The stakes are practical as well as equitable. Utilities can secure funding, hire contractors, and identify lead lines—but they still need residents to participate so crews can complete replacements on private property.
Episode at https://www.waterloop.org/the-fight-against-lead-from-flint-to-2037/
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