Toxic Synergy

In the controversy over this water reclamation project, much attention is focused on the speciation of Chromium in waterways: the unknowns regarding the conversion between Chromium III and Chromium VI, the oversight on the determination of safe levels, and limitations of accurate and reliable testing.   But Chromium is but one parameter of concern.  It is a drop in the bucket compared to the large number of potential pollutants associated with wastewater as well as its effects. This is what is significant (all these potential contaminants together and their synergistic effects), not just one contaminant like Chromium. The issue of Chromium is only a  microcosm of the big picture and the problems that will be faced.

Given the scope of pollutants, the complexity of their interaction and the plethora of unknowns associated with the process, the proposal (East Valley Water Reclamation Project) appears to lack comprehensive planning, adequate study and foresight.

It is always amazing to me that simplistic views and processes are continually applied as the ultimate solution when attempting to solve enormously complex problems.

—John Cary Stewart, author of Drinking Water Hazards, 20 years of laboratory and consulting experience on issues related to drinking water quality. He is the Assistant Professor at Lake Erie College, Painesville, OH, former laboratory chemist.