R.I. Must Encourage Responsible Housing Development That Protects Drinking Water Supplies – ecoRI News

Report on Sustainable Housing Development and Drinking Water Protection in Rhode Island

Introduction

Rhode Island faces a critical need for increased housing, particularly for low and moderate income (LMI) residents. However, the approach to achieving this growth must align with sustainable development principles, especially those outlined in the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), such as SDG 6 (Clean Water and Sanitation), SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities), and SDG 15 (Life on Land). This report emphasizes the importance of protecting drinking water resources while pursuing housing development.

Challenges of Housing Development on Drinking Water Resources

Unplanned or high-density housing developments in watersheds supplying public surface and groundwater drinking water pose significant risks. Contamination or over-extraction of these water sources can lead to irreversible damage, threatening the health and well-being of current and future generations, thus undermining SDG 6.

Legislative Amendments to the Rhode Island Low and Moderate Income Housing Act

To address these concerns, legislation has been proposed to amend the Rhode Island Low and Moderate Income (LMI) Housing Act. Key amendments include:

1. Elimination of state-mandated housing densities in lands designated for drinking water supplies.
2. Requirement for developers to document the capacity of public water and sewer systems to support proposed residential density increases.
3. Ensuring that housing densities do not exceed onsite drinking water availability or introduce pollution risks.

These measures aim to uphold sustainable water management and responsible urban planning, supporting SDG 6 and SDG 11.

Concerns Regarding Current Housing Density Regulations

The existing LMI law permits density bonuses up to eight housing units per acre, which can result in a 1,600% increase in density in certain zones. Such high-density development without adequate water supply capacity or pollution controls threatens water quality and quantity. Despite state regulations intended to minimize water quality impacts, experience shows these are insufficient for high-density developments, highlighting a gap in governance related to SDG 6 and SDG 16 (Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions).

Insights from the Scituate Reservoir Watershed Management Plan

The Scituate Reservoir Watershed Management Plan provides a comprehensive framework for protecting water quality. It recommends prohibiting high-density residential development (defined as less than a quarter-acre per dwelling unit) in watershed areas to reduce pollution risks. This aligns with SDG 6 and SDG 15 by safeguarding freshwater ecosystems.

Role of Local Governments and Sustainable Development

Local governments must have the authority to regulate housing density and location to protect drinking water resources. This approach supports:

• SDG 6: Ensuring availability and sustainable management of water and sanitation.
• SDG 11: Making cities inclusive, safe, resilient, and sustainable.
• SDG 15: Protecting terrestrial ecosystems and promoting sustainable land use.

Protecting drinking water is essential for life and economic prosperity, and Rhode Island must prioritize locating LMI housing in areas with sustainable water supplies.

Conclusion and Call to Action

The proposed legislative amendments represent common-sense, sustainable solutions to prevent future crises related to water scarcity and contamination. They reinforce Rhode Island’s commitment to responsible growth and environmental stewardship, consistent with multiple SDGs.

Recognition is due to Rep. Megan Cotter and Sen. Victoria Gu for their leadership in introducing bills H7446 and S2691. Support for these bills is urged to ensure the preservation and protection of Rhode Island’s drinking water for present and future generations.

About the Author

Scott Millar is an environmental scientist and planner with over 45 years of experience in municipal land use. His career includes roles at the Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management, Division of Statewide Planning, and Grow Smart Rhode Island.

1. Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) Addressed or Connected

1. SDG 6: Clean Water and Sanitation
   • The article emphasizes the importance of preserving clean drinking water supplies and protecting watersheds from contamination and overuse.
2. SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities
   • The discussion on housing development, density regulations, and ensuring sustainable growth aligns with the goal of making cities and human settlements inclusive, safe, resilient, and sustainable.
3. SDG 15: Life on Land
   • Protection of watersheds and natural water sources from pollution and overdevelopment relates to sustainable management of terrestrial ecosystems.

2. Specific Targets Under Those SDGs Identified

1. SDG 6 Targets
   • Target 6.1: Achieve universal and equitable access to safe and affordable drinking water for all.
   • Target 6.3: Improve water quality by reducing pollution and minimizing release of hazardous chemicals.
   • Target 6.4: Substantially increase water-use efficiency across all sectors to ensure sustainable withdrawals.
2. SDG 11 Targets
   • Target 11.1: Ensure access for all to adequate, safe, and affordable housing and basic services.
   • Target 11.3: Enhance inclusive and sustainable urbanization and capacity for participatory planning and management.
3. SDG 15 Targets
   • Target 15.1: Ensure conservation, restoration, and sustainable use of terrestrial and freshwater ecosystems.

3. Indicators Mentioned or Implied to Measure Progress

1. Indicators Related to SDG 6
   • Proportion of population using safely managed drinking water services (implied by concern over water quality and availability).
   • Water quality measurements in watersheds and reservoirs (implied by references to contamination risks and watershed management plans).
   • Capacity of public water and sewer systems documented before approving housing density increases (explicitly mentioned as a requirement in the legislation).
2. Indicators Related to SDG 11
   • Housing density per acre (explicitly discussed in terms of allowable units and density bonuses).
   • Availability of adequate infrastructure (water and sewer capacity) to support housing developments.
3. Indicators Related to SDG 15
   • Extent of protected watershed areas and compliance with watershed management plans (implied through reference to the Scituate Reservoir Watershed Management Plan).
   • Incidence of pollution events or degradation in surface and groundwater quality.

4. Table of SDGs, Targets, and Indicators

Source: ecori.org