Disposable wipes, glitter, artificial turf and other products are contaminating food, drinking water and air with microplastics and, although the situation poses a risk to human and marine health, federal and global solutions have been slow to take shape. Some communities and states are taking the problem into their own hands with bans on products like glitter and confetti, and rules that regulate disposal. New York, California and Michigan have passed labeling laws for wipes to help inform consumers that they are not suitable for flushing.

Mount Rainier National Park's Paradise alpine area is working to restore drinking water supplies and restroom operations after experiencing a heavy storm earlier this month. The park no longer has an on-site plumber after staff cuts earlier this year and portable toilets have been brought in for visitors. The storm had churned up sediment and debris in surface water supplies, resulting in clogged water treatment filters and potential contamination.

Phoenix is planning to construct three advanced water purification facilities to turn wastewater into drinking water, aiming to ensure a sustainable water supply for economic growth. The first facility, replacing the Cave Creek Water Reclamation Plant, will use indirect potable reuse and is expected to be operational by 2029. The second facility, North Gateway, will use direct potable reuse and is set for 2030. The largest facility at 91st Avenue Wastewater Treatment Plant will be completed by 2033, reducing reliance on the Colorado River.

The Milwaukee Riverkeeper and Midwest Environmental Advocates have sued Racine, Wis., to force the release of projected water usage data for Microsoft's $3.3 billion data center in Mount Pleasant. The lawsuit alleges the city may have violated public records laws and expresses concern over the environmental impact of the project, which could use millions of gallons of water per day.

Clemson is undertaking a citywide initiative to replace all 9,000 residential water meters, aiming to improve water usage efficiency and billing accuracy. The process involves Concord Utility Services installing new meters at no additional cost to residents, with each installation expected to cause a brief water service interruption lasting about 20 minutes. "These new ultrasonic meters provide unparalleled accuracy, allowing us to proactively detect leaks and reduce water loss across our system," said Utilities Director Benjie McGill.