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Maya and Kathleen on advancing equity in water | Water Online

Equitable access to clean, safe, and affordable water is a pressing goal for the water sector, as many communities across the country face barriers to this essential resource. In a recent Water Online interview, Carollo’s Maya Turner and Kathleen Mannion explore the progress, challenges, and evolving practices in addressing environmental justice and equity in water and wastewater services.

What is Water Equity?

Water equity goes beyond just access to clean drinking water. As Kathleen Mannion explains, it’s about providing all communities with resilient infrastructure to withstand hazards like flooding, droughts, and climate-related threats. “Water equity also means that the opinions and perspectives of all members of the community are taken into account for decision-making on infrastructure investment,” Kathleen emphasizes.

This broader approach not only addresses immediate needs but also creates a foundation for long-term resilience and fairness.

Positive Progress and Persistent Challenges in Water Inequality

Federal funding is playing a critical role in improving water equity. Kathleen highlights that infrastructure investments are increasingly targeted toward disadvantaged communities, bringing much-needed improvements to areas that have historically been underserved.

Maya Turner adds that many utilities are weaving equity into their core strategic goals. “One way they are doing this is by incorporating equity into their capital improvement planning as well as their asset management programs,” Maya notes. This shift is helping utilities provide a higher level of service to all communities, particularly those that are most vulnerable.

Measuring Equity in Water Infrastructure Investments

One of the most critical components of advancing equity is measuring progress. Utilities are using key metrics to assess how their infrastructure investments impact vulnerable communities and improve water affordability for low-income households. These efforts provide a framework for addressing inequities and building trust within the communities they serve.

To hear more from Maya Turner and Kathleen Mannion about the evolving practices and challenges in advancing equity in water, watch their full conversation with Water Online below.