Global Scans · Water · Weekly Summary

• Natural solutions are less expensive, which could save $489 billion annually according to a recent study, can be implemented more quickly, can adapt to changes over time, can create jobs and improve quality of life through cleaner water and recreational opportunities. CALmatters
• The Biden administration's American Jobs Plan proposes: $56 billion for drinking water, wastewater, and stormwater improvements; $45 billion to replace all lead pipes; and $10 billion to address contamination, among several other measures. Brookings
• The agricultural sector, which provides the most jobs in the Middle East and North Africa, could be devastated with water availability declining by as much as 45%. Al Jazeera
• In the US, communities of color, Indigenous people and low income families are far more likely to be exposed to a myriad of pollutants through unsafe housing and water, manufacturing and agricultural jobs, and proximity to roads and polluting industrial plants, among other hazards. The Guardian
• The American Jobs Plan includes $45 billion to address lead in drinking water in homes and schools. Water Finance & Management
• The Advancing Water Reuse Act will create opportunities for businesses to expand operations and grow jobs while also protecting local water resources by establishing an Investment Tax Credit (ITC) for industrial water reuse. / USA WateReuse Association | Engage. Educate. Advocate.
• Despite investment from the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA), water infrastructure will require significant additional investment, with the EPA estimating $625 billion in drinking water infrastructure needs over the next 20 years. Capstone DC
• Mexico's persistent shortfalls in deliveries have led to severe water shortages for Rio Grande Valley farmers and ranchers, devastating crops, costing jobs and threatening the local economy. American Ag Network

Last updated: 09 March 2026