Press Releases

Celebrating 100 Years of Chlorinated Water

Public health continues to be top priority of the private water industry

WASHINGTON, DC – The National Association of Water Companies (NAWC) today joined Jersey City, New Jersey, and United Water in celebrating the health benefits from the widespread use of chlorine as a safe method to clean and disinfect our nation’s water supply. Water chlorination was first used in the U.S. 100 years ago today by Jersey City Water, a municipal water authority whose facilities are managed today by United Water of New Jersey, a member of NAWC. Chlorination is hailed by many as one of the most life-saving innovations of our time.

Initially, chlorination of water was met with resistance by those who believed it may be harmful. However, time and careful study have proven that chlorination is a safe and effective means of keeping water free of microbes and harmful bacteria, including E-coli and amoeba. Today, chlorination is used extensively by both municipal and private water treatment plants. Although other methods of disinfection may be utilized depending on local conditions, chlorination continues to be an effective and economical tool in water treatment.

In 1996 Jersey City first established a unique public-private partnership with United Water for the management and operation of its water supply, treatment, and distribution system. This year, the partnership was extended for another 10 years.

“NAWC would like to congratulate United Water of New Jersey for being part of such innovation,” said Peter Cook, Executive Director of NAWC. “Jersey City was on the cutting edge of innovation 100 years ago with the introduction of chlorination and remains an innovator today by relying on a public-private partnership to provide the best water service and value for its residents.”

For more information on United Water of New Jersey, please visit http://www.unitedwater.com/uwnj/

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