Episode 38: When it Rains, it Pours

Talking Under Water

n this episode of Talking Under Water, One Water, One Podcast, hosts Lauren Del Ciello, Katie Johns and Bob Crossen discuss the latest coronavirus relief package — the American Rescue Plan — and its impact on the water industry. We’ll also dig into the results of the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) 2021 Infrastructure Report Card as pertains to water infrastructure. Finally, the interview this month is with Rich “Raz” Razgaitis, co-founder and CEO for FloWater. Johns spoke with Razgaitis about microplastics and how the issue impacts all aspects of the water industry from consumer to municipality workers. Show Notes: Congress adopts $1.9 trillion stimulus, securing first major win for Biden EPA Action Notices Extend Lead & Copper Rule Revision Effective Date US House Passes Stimulus Bill, Includes Water Assistance ASCE Infrastructure Report Card: Drinking Water, Wastewater & Storm Water Grades Storm Water Earns ‘D’ on ASCE Report Card for America’s Infrastructure Timestamps: Cold open: (0:00) Host introduction: (0:28) American Rescue Plan Act effect on water industry: (1:45) An update on the status of the Lead & Copper Rule Revision: (4:46) ASCE Drinking Water & Wastewater Grade briefing: (6:09) ASCE Storm Water Grade briefing: (7:42) Unpacking the ASCE Report Card grades: (9:02) Introducing Rich “Raz” Razgaitis: (12:34) Defining microplastics in water: (13:17) Threats microplastics pose to humans and the environment: (14:23) The impact of microplastics on water, wastewater and storm water treatment: (18:30) Are regulations on the horizon for microplastics?: (20:50) Why banning single-use plastics doesn’t always work: (23:49) How tap water is a crucial element in solving the microplastics problem: (26:04) Microplastics regulations for wastewater and stormwater facilities?: (27:19) What can water industry professionals do to address microplastics: (29:02) Housekeeping: (35:03) End: (37:52)