Emerging contaminants, or contaminants of concern, encompass a wide range of chemicals, from pharmaceuticals and personal care products to household cleaners and lawn care products. As a result of human synthesis and use, these chemicals can find their way into surface water, groundwater, and wastewater. While fish and other aquatic organisms risk exposure, humans can also be exposed through drinking water. Many of these chemicals have been used for decades, but they are considered “emerging” because scientists are still trying to understand the scope of their impact on human and environmental health.

RI NEMO is currently working on two projects with the RI Department of Health to address PFAS in RI waters and Legionella in small public water systems. Funding for the PFAS project comes from the RI Department of Health, the Southern New England Program (SNEP) Network, and the Rhode Island Infrastructure Bank. Funding for the Legionella management project comes from the RI Department of Health.