title
PROPOSED RESOLUTION
RECOGNIZING THE MONTH OF AUGUST AS NATIONAL WATER QUALITY MONTH
WHEREAS, August is National Water Quality Month, a time to raise awareness about the importance of clean water, the protection of water resources, and the impact of water quality on public health and the environment; and
WHEREAS, National Water Quality Month was first established in 2005 through a joint resolution by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the United Nations to draw attention to the need for sustainable water management and pollution prevention; and
WHEREAS, according to the United States Geological Survey (USGS), only 2.5% of the Earth's water is freshwater, and less than 1% is accessible for human use, making it a critically limited and vulnerable resource; and
WHEREAS, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency reports that nearly 44% of rivers and 64% of lakes across the United States are considered damaged due to pollution or contamination; and
WHEREAS, the Safe Drinking Water Act (enacted in 1974) and the Clean Water Act (enacted in 1972) form the foundation of federal efforts to regulate water quality and ensure that public water systems meet health-based standards; and
WHEREAS, water pollution disproportionately affects underserved and low-income communities, who are more likely to live near industrial waste sites or aging water infrastructure; and
WHEREAS, contaminants such as lead, PFAS (forever chemicals), nitrates, and pathogens continue to pose serious risks to drinking water supplies and human health; and
WHEREAS, clean water is essential for drinking, sanitation, agriculture, manufacturing, and ecosystem health; and
WHEREAS, National Water Quality Month serves as an important reminder to conserve water, reduce pollution, and advocate for policies that protect this vital resource for current and future generations; and
WHEREAS, individuals, municipalities, industries, and organizations all play a role in preserving water quality through education, innovation, and community engagement.
NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the Cook County Board of Commissioners recognizes the month of August as National Water Quality Monthend