Improving access to clean water – The Advocate-Messenger

Improving Access to Clean Water

Published 4:10 pm Thursday, May 9, 2024

About the Author

By Representative Daniel Elliott

Introduction

Kentucky has more miles of navigable water than any other state except Alaska. However, access to clean water and proper wastewater infrastructure remains a challenge for many Kentuckians. This article highlights the importance of clean water and wastewater systems for a good quality of life and emphasizes the need for investments in improving water infrastructure.

The Importance of Clean Water and Wastewater Infrastructure

Clean drinking water is essential for various activities such as cooking, bathing, and cleaning. Unfortunately, many Kentuckians do not have access to clean water, which affects their daily lives. Additionally, wastewater infrastructure plays a crucial role in cleaning dirty water before it returns to rivers or lakes, preventing environmental pollution and protecting plants and animals.

Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)

The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) are a set of global goals established by the United Nations to address various social, economic, and environmental challenges. Improving access to clean water and wastewater infrastructure aligns with several SDGs, including:

1. SDG 6: Clean Water and Sanitation
2. SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure
3. SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities

Investments in Water and Wastewater Infrastructure

In recognition of the importance of clean water and wastewater systems, the Kentucky legislature has allocated significant funding for improving water infrastructure across the state. In 2022, $250 million was allocated for water and wastewater infrastructure improvements in every county, with an additional $10 million specifically designated for rural areas.

This commitment continued with the passage of HB 1, which set aside an additional $344.7 million as a one-time investment measure. Furthermore, HB 563 was passed to ensure that millions in funding reach the state’s most troubled water districts. This legislation provides a framework for allocating and spending the funds allocated in HB 1 for water and wastewater projects.

The Kentucky Waste Waters Fund (WWATERS)

HB 563 establishes the Kentucky Waste Waters Fund (WWATERS), a loan pool modeled after the successful Kentucky Product Development Initiative (KPDI). WWATERS aims to support troubled water systems that do not qualify for existing grants or loans. The program will be administered by the Kentucky Infrastructure Authority (KIA) and will provide funding for both capital and non-capital expenditures.

Under the provisions of the bill, qualifying systems can apply to the KIA, which will review and score the applications. The evaluations and scores will then be submitted to the legislature’s Interim Joint Committee on Appropriations and Revenue for action. The KIA will be responsible for verifying the eligibility of proposed loans, administering the loans, and monitoring the projects.

The Emergency Kentucky Waste Waters Fund

HB 563 also establishes the Emergency Kentucky Waste Waters Fund, which provides capital to water systems during a state of emergency to restore utility service. This emergency revolving loan fund will be administered by the Kentucky Infrastructure Authority, ensuring that communities in need receive temporary assistance during emergencies.

Conclusion

Improving access to clean water and wastewater infrastructure is crucial for the well-being of Kentuckians and aligns with the Sustainable Development Goals. The investments made by the Kentucky legislature, including the establishment of the Kentucky Waste Waters Fund and the Emergency Kentucky Waste Waters Fund, demonstrate a commitment to addressing water infrastructure challenges and ensuring a better quality of life for all residents.

Contact Information

For further inquiries or to reach Representative Daniel Elliott:

• Toll-free message line in Frankfort: 1-800-372-7181
• Email: Daniel.Elliott@lrc.ky.gov
• Kentucky legislature’s website: legislature.ky.gov

Improving access to clean water

SDGs Addressed:

• SDG 6: Clean Water and Sanitation
• SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure

Targets:

1. SDG 6.1: By 2030, achieve universal and equitable access to safe and affordable drinking water for all.
2. SDG 6.2: By 2030, achieve access to adequate and equitable sanitation and hygiene for all and end open defecation, paying special attention to the needs of women and girls and those in vulnerable situations.
3. SDG 9.1: Develop quality, reliable, sustainable and resilient infrastructure, including regional and transborder infrastructure, to support economic development and human well-being, with a focus on affordable and equitable access for all.

Indicators:

• Indicator for SDG 6.1: Proportion of population using safely managed drinking water services.
• Indicator for SDG 6.2: Proportion of population using safely managed sanitation services, including a handwashing facility with soap and water.
• Indicator for SDG 9.1: Proportion of the rural population who live within 2 km of an all-season road.

SDGs, Targets, and Indicators:

Copyright: Dive into this article, curated with care by SDG Investors Inc. Our advanced AI technology searches through vast amounts of data to spotlight how we are all moving forward with the Sustainable Development Goals. While we own the rights to this content, we invite you to share it to help spread knowledge and spark action on the SDGs.

Fuente: amnews.com

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