NC Coastal Tourism Threatened by Salty Tap Water

Rising sea levels, a pressing consequence of climate change, are introducing unexpected challenges for North Carolina’s coastal tourism industry. A recent study published in Water Resources Research has revealed a troubling connection between tap water salinity and declining overnight stays in the state’s coastal accommodations.

The Problem: Saltwater Intrusion into Aquifers

The intrusion of saltwater into freshwater aquifers, spurred by rising seas, is increasing the saltiness of drinking water. This issue is particularly acute in low-lying areas like North Carolina’s barrier islands. These aquifers are vital, as public water systems rely on them to supplement desalination processes that produce safe drinking water.

Without intervention, the salinization of aquifers could make water undrinkable and more expensive to process. Even advanced desalination techniques cannot entirely eliminate saltiness, potentially altering water’s taste and increasing costs for consumers.

Sea level rise in North Carolina has averaged up to 5 mm annually, and projections suggest an additional 5 cm by 2033. These trends will exacerbate the challenge of maintaining freshwater supplies.

Study Highlights: Tourism’s Response to Salty Water

Professor John Whitehead and his colleagues at Appalachian State University explored how tap water salinity affects coastal tourism. They surveyed over 430 North Carolina residents who had visited coastal destinations in the past three years. Respondents were asked whether saltier tap water would influence their choice to stay overnight at their destination.

The findings were significant:

• A slight increase in tap water salinity reduced overnight stays by 2%.
• Moderate salinity caused an 8% drop in overnight stays.
• High salinity led to an 11% decline in tourism.

Notably, 21% of respondents said water salinity would not deter them, even if it required purchasing bottled water. However, the overall trend indicated a measurable decline in coastal tourism tied to water quality.

Projected Impact on Coastal Aquifers and Economy

The study projected a dire future for North Carolina’s coastal aquifers:

• By 2040, 13% of the 31 studied beaches may lose access to freshwater aquifers entirely, while 42% could face significant salinity problems.
• By 2060, 32% of beaches may lack viable aquifers, rising to 55% by 2080.

The economic consequences are equally severe. The research estimates a potential loss of $232 million in annual consumer spending by 2040 if tap water quality continues to decline.

Solutions for Coastal Water Quality

To mitigate these challenges, the study emphasizes the need for immediate action:

• Regulatory Measures: Strengthening drinking water regulations to address salinity.
• Technological Innovations: Investing in advanced desalination and water treatment systems.
• Sustainability Strategies: Promoting measures to slow sea level rise and protect aquifers from further salinization.

Reverse Osmosis and Whole-Home Water Conditioners

Reverse osmosis (RO) filtration and whole-home water conditioners offer practical solutions to improve water quality in affected areas. RO systems effectively remove salts and impurities from water, providing a reliable source of clean drinking water. Whole-home conditioners can further enhance water quality by addressing mineral imbalances, ensuring water is suitable for both drinking and household use.

As North Carolina grapples with the dual pressures of rising sea levels and tourism sustainability, these tools could play a critical role in preserving the state’s coastal allure and economic vitality.

Source: Phys.org