In today’s “Research Spotlight,” we feature, “Safeguarding Texas’ Wastewater Infrastructure: Key Threats and Imperatives" by Sofia Lehmann. Wastewater infrastructure stands as a critical yet vulnerable component of Texas’ essential services, and cities and towns in the state must be aware of several key threats to these systems. Though other utilities receive considerable political, media, and scholarly attention, it is crucial to also understand the pivotal role of wastewater systems as a dimension of critical infrastructure in the realms of public health and environmental protection. The aim of this report is to provide an overview of the problems and challenges that presently face Texas’ wastewater infrastructure, which demand renewed attention from both public and private spheres. Specifically, three primary threats endanger the integrity of Texas’ wastewater systems, each of which has far-reaching implications. First, Texas cities and towns must confront the problem of aging wastewater infrastructure, as many facilities have long surpassed their intended lifespans and are susceptible to failures and inefficiencies. Second, the state of Texas is uniquely vulnerable to natural disasters that pose a significant risk to the efficacy of wastewater systems and threaten to disrupt these services. Finally, the persistent issue of inadequate funding hampers efforts to modernize and fortify wastewater infrastructure, leaving these systems ill-prepared to meet current and future demands. By prioritizing infrastructure improvements, ensuring disaster mitigation, and locating mechanisms to secure funding, Texas cities can fortify their wastewater systems and ensure that they remain reliable, resilient, and responsive to the needs of their communities. ? Lehmann, S. (2024). Safeguarding Texas’ Wastewater Infrastructure: Key Threats and Imperatives. (Report No. IHS/CR-2024-1028). The Sam Houston State University Institute for Homeland Security. Click here to read the paper in its entirety: https://lnkd.in/gUWwki85 "IHS Research Spotlight" is a technical paper series hosted by the SHSU Institute for Homeland Security on our website, ihsonline.org. The non-partisan series features papers with various viewpoints & examines critical & timely issues facing homeland security. Click the link to visit the SHSU IHS research page. https://lnkd.in/g_WqHuq2 #shsuIHS #IHSResearchSpotlight
