Lack of basic water, sanitation costs U.S. economy more than $8.5B annually
More than 1.57 million Americans live without a toilet or tap at home, costing the U.S. economy $8.58 billion every year, according to a report produced by DigDee, with contributions from partners including the International Association of Plumbing and Mechanical Officials (IAPMO).
Titled “Draining: The Economic Impact of America’s Hidden Water Crisis,” the report provides an in-depth analysis of the costs and benefits of extending water and sanitation access to every home in the United States. The $8.58 billion annual figure averages out to $15,800 per household in health care, time spent collecting and paying for bottled water, loss of time at work and school and premature death. The full report is available online at digdeep.org/draining.