Don't Let Business Wait

Abstract

Though his essays first appeared 500 years ago, French philosopher Michel de Montaigne remains a source of insight on the human condition. In one of his shorter pieces, “Let Business Wait Till Tomorrow,” Montaigne describes Archias of Thebes, who was sent explicit details of how he would be assassinated just before the attack; however, he put off reading these critical notes with a dismissive “Let business wait till tomorrow.” Needless to say, Archias should have read the warning. Similarly, Montaigne recounted how Julius Caesar could have saved his life, too if, before he was killed, he had read a memo describing how he would be betrayed by Roman senators (or heeded Shakespeare's “Beware the ides of March”). Every industry has its challenges and, while no one likes bad news, it's often the only news reported on the water industry. Generalizations are prevalent. Every pipe in the ground is corroded and crumbling, and our source waters are flooded with unregulated contaminants. Flint's lead problems were just the tip of the iceberg. Industrial chemicals are everywhere, and they will never break down. Climate change means more frequent and severe droughts and floods for which we're unprepared. Utilities are too slow to find and report violations, and regulators are too slow to respond. Technology isn't integrated fast enough and there's little money to pay for regular maintenance, let alone upgrades for resilience and sustainability. It's easy to be critical of the water sector at times, and there's a lot to stay on top of, but the water business is 24-7 and if it's a main break at 2:00 a.m. or a new mom concerned about lead in her water, someone needs to respond. As Montaigne put it, someone in public office who puts off hearing news (bad or good) is inexcusable. And while only a few water professionals are elected officials, we all need to appreciate the degree to which we serve the public. Water professionals must commit to staying informed on all issues, whether they involve harmful algal blooms, microplastics, or affordability. Be prepared to describe how fair rates and fees ultimately translate into safe water at the tap. Argue for more federal and state funding for research. Help community members understand that their assets may be buried out of sight but they still need attention. Mention that small systems, which are often those with reporting and health violations, need technical and managerial assistance so that all communities have safe, affordable water. Don't let business wait till tomorrow. Stay abreast of the water industry's challenges and solutions in the pages of Journal AWWA and AWWA Water Science. This month's issue of Journal AWWA focuses on harmful algal blooms, microplastics, and secondary disinfectants. If you're interested in submitting an article, contact me at journaleditor@awwa.org.