A look back at what our unique network accomplished in 2023
Here are 10 examples of how our advocates won positive results for the public and the planet in 2023.
Clean water
Together we can protect the waterways that sustain our communities and our health.
Our waterways should be safe for swimming, fishing and drinking. But weak regulations and lax enforcement allow many of our rivers, lakes and streams to become so polluted they are no longer safe. This pollution, along with outdated infrastructure – like lead pipes in our schools – puts our health at risk. We need to work together to make sure our water is treated like the life-giving resource that it is.
The Latest on Clean water
Statement: New rule will aid PFAS clean-ups
Got PFAS?
Updates
An underappreciated way to fight the opioid crisis AND keep our waterways clean
Featured Resources
The Threat of “Forever Chemicals”
Who are the top toxic water polluters in your state?
Green schools guide
Get the Lead Out
The Latest
Interactive map shows widespread lead contamination in schools drinking water
Lead contamination of school drinking water is more pervasive than previously thought, according to testing data from across the nation published on Thursday by Environment America Research & Policy Center and U.S. PIRG Education Fund on a new interactive map. The groups urged public officials to take swift action to “get the lead out” of schools’ drinking water.
Burger King commits to eliminating toxic “forever chemicals” in food packaging globally
Restaurant Brands International (RBI), parent company of Burger King, Tim Hortons and Popeyes, announced Wednesday evening a new global commitment to eliminate per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in food packaging used in its restaurants by 2025.
Response to the School District of Philadelphia
New Study: Lead contamination common in Philly school drinking water
PHILADELPHIA -- PennPIRG Education Fund, the PennEnvironment Research & Policy Center and the Black Church Center for Justice and Equality (BCC) released a new report Wednesday reviewing data on self-reported samples for lead in drinking water from 65 Philadelphia public schools. Lead in the Water showed that 98% of the Philadelphia public schools tested had drinking water samples contaminated with lead, and 61% of all outlets tested across the district were tainted with lead. Outlets include water fountains, kitchen faucets, hydration stations, and classroom and bathroom sinks.
Why is nobody talking about outdoor gear’s PFAS problem at Snow Show?
Much of our outdoor clothing and gear is waterproofed using toxic PFAS chemicals, but a few industry leaders are beginning to recognize it's not worth the impacts on our health and environment.