Toxins pollute even ‘safe’ drinking water in S.C. systems, with Charleston’s containing 7, controversial study says.
The Environmental Working Group’s study found that of more than 250 cancer-causing chemicals found in utilities across the country, 160 were found at levels that researchers and some state standards say pose a health risk, despite being allowed by the federal EPA.
However, the study concludes by promoting carbon water filters.
Access to it asks for a contribution for the group.
In water from the utilities serving at least 100,000 people in South Carolina, anywhere from six to nine chemicals were found at levels the group considered to be a risk.
As an example, Charleston Water System had seven, including chromium 6, the chemical that consumer advocate Erin Brockovich found in a California water system she famously researched for a successful public health lawsuit.
"It’s mind-boggling," said Nneka Leiba, director of healthy living science for the group.
"Our drinking water is safe.
The (group) is trying to establish their own standards above and beyond the S.C. Department of Health and Environmental Control and EPA water standards that protect all of us from both naturally occurring and man-made contaminants that may be found in drinking water."
The study is an update of earlier reports.