Recent federal actions have further jeopardized these essential resources, highlighting the urgent need for collective accountability and protection.
The "Waters of the United States" (WOTUS) rule, a cornerstone of the Clean Water Act, is being redefined to exclude certain wetlands and ephemeral streams. This change diminishes federal protections, leaving many water bodies vulnerable to pollution and development. Such regulatory rollbacks undermine efforts to safeguard the waters that sustain life and culture. Waterspirit provided powerful comments last week to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) regarding the same.
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has begun rolling back regulations on per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), commonly known as "forever chemicals." While limits for PFOA and PFOS remain, the rollback rescinds protections for other harmful PFAS variants. These chemicals, linked to severe health issues, persist in the environment and water supplies, posing long-term risks to public health.
Prolonged droughts, particularly in the Northeast U.S., are exacerbating water scarcity. These conditions strain water resources, affect agriculture, and threaten biodiversity. The interconnectedness of water and air means that environmental degradation knows no bound. What happens in one area can have far-reaching impacts, underscoring the need for comprehensive environmental protection.
States are seeking to strengthen protection in their communities. For instance, Pennsylvania is considering legislation to establish stricter PFAS standards, ensuring local protections remain robust. NJ residents are poised to join Pennsylvania in having constitutionally protected rights to clean air, pure water, a stable climate and healthy environment for future generations. Such actions demonstrate the power of local governance in protecting public health and sacred Earth.
Call to Action
Our prayer sometimes comes in the form of action. We must unite to protect our sacred waters. This includes advocating for stronger regulations, supporting state-level initiatives, and holding polluters accountable for environmental harm. Waterspirit is hoping you will join the chorus of faith traditions in New Jersey supportive of a NJ Green Amendment, amongst other actions. Taking advocacy actions help us to honor the intrinsic value of water and its role in sustaining life. Visit our Calls to Action page and consider volunteering with Waterspirit.