Clean Water
Anytime. Anywhere.
October 6, 2025
A KXAN investigative news report revealed that hexavalent chromium (chromium-6) was detected in Central Texas drinking water supplies. The findings were based on recent analyses of public water system data and highlighted that chromium-6 remains unregulated at the federal level despite strong links to cancer. The report emphasized that current EPA standards regulate only total chromium, not the more toxic chromium-6 form. This coverage brought regional and national attention to a growing public-health concern.
October 9, 2025
At a scientific conference held shortly after the report’s release, where we met, chromium contamination in drinking water became a topic of our discussion. Conversations referenced newly published Environmental Working Group (EWG) findings showing chromium-6 concentration limits in water systems across the United States. These discussions highlighted the disconnection between scientific evidence and existing water regulations. This moment sparked collective interest in exploring solutions beyond awareness alone.
November 5, 2025
Mahi, Fiona, and Ishan began structured research into chromium-6, focusing on health impacts, chemical behavior, and water treatment limitations. The team analyzed data from the EWG Tap Water Database, which documents chromium-6 alongside co-occurring contaminants such as arsenic and nitrate. Research revealed that many communities are exposed to contaminant levels exceeding health-based guidelines, even when water is legally compliant. By this point, the group had developed a strong scientific foundation for action-oriented work.
November 11, 2025
Research findings were shared with Shreyan, Sayee, and Ishani, expanding the project team and scope. Discussions centered on recent reports showing that chromium-6 exposure may contribute to long-term cancer risk even at low concentrations. The group agreed that addressing the issue required both public awareness and practical implementation. This meeting marked the transition from research to solution-driven planning.
December 2025
During winter break, the team divided into smaller groups to focus on tangible outcomes. One group began developing a physical prototype inspired by adsorption-based filtration methods discussed in recent water-quality studies. The design aimed to address chromium-6 while remaining environmentally responsible and scalable. This phase represented the first step toward translating research into real-world impact.
