While investigating new areas of innovation pertaining to water in the modern home, we kept encountering the year 2030 as a common deadline for several initiatives. We wondered why.

Having lived in California for over 30 years, long ago, we began speculating where do these—often overreaching—policy ideas come from, that eventually impact the ordinary daily lives of homeowners, builders, contractors, and housing communities?

Here’s what we learned about Agenda 2030 as it pertains to water—the resource of life—and why homeowners should care.

Table of Contents

Also see:

 

What is Agenda 2030?

Agenda 2030 is a global plan adopted by the United Nations in 2015 to achieve sustainable development by 2030. Water for People described this mission as:

In 2015, members of the United Nations (UN) agreed on “The 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development”—a plan dedicated to forming a shared blueprint for peace and prosperity for people and the planet.

Agenda 2030's 17 Sustainable Development Goals

Agenda 2030’s 17 Sustainable Development Goals

At the heart of this plan are 17 Sustainable Development Goals to be reached by 2030, all under the “modest” heading of:

17 Goals, 193 Countries, One Ambitious Vision

 

SDG 6: Agenda 2030’s Water Initiatives

Sustainable Development Goal #6 (SDG 6) of Agenda 2030 aims to ensure availability and sustainable management of water and sanitation for all by the year 2030.

SDG 6 Clean Water and Sanitation Icon

While the US has near-universal access to basic water and sanitation services (over 99% coverage), SDG 6 strives to influence domestic policy through:

  • Federal agencies, like the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)
  • State-level mandates, and
  • Incentives tied to broader sustainability goals

SDG 6 consists of eight target goals all pertaining to water and sanitation:

  • Target 6.1: Accessible and Affordable Drinking Water
  • Target 6.2: Safe Sanitation Systems
  • Target 6.3: Water Quality, Wastewater Pollution, Reuse
  • Target 6.4: Water-Use Efficiency and Water Scarcity
  • Target 6.5: Integrated Water Resources Management (IWRM)
  • Target 6.6: Protect and Restore Water-Related Ecosystems
  • Target 6.A: International Cooperation and Capacity-Building for Developing Countries
  • Target 6.B: Community Participation

 

Why Homeowners Should Care About SDG 6

Under the auspices of “all politics are local”, we bring this information to homeowners as a stark reminder of the pressing need to stay involved and abreast of local laws and regulations.

Even in the face of federal opposition to the UN’s 2030 Agenda and its 17 SDGs, states and localities have significant autonomy over environmental, land-use, and energy policies. This means states are free to pursue initiatives aligned with the UN’s 2030 Agenda. For instance, 17 U.S. states are currently members of the Under2 Coalition, a global network of states and regions who are committed to achieving net zero emissions by 2050. The coalition is managed by The Climate Group. Another such group is the U.S. Climate Alliance, a “bipartisan” coalition of 24 state governors committed to advancing state-led climate action to achieve net-zero emissions, also, “no later than” 2050.

Member states of the U.S. Climate Alliance U.S. Climate who are committed to achieving Net-Zero Emissions no later than 2050. Member states are in blue.

Member states, in blue, of the U.S. Climate Alliance U.S. Climate who are committed to achieving Net-Zero Emissions no later than 2050. Vermont is currently the only state with a Republican governor to be part of the alliance.
Image courtesy of U.S. Climate Alliance

Though Agenda 2030’s SDGs aren’t legally binding internationally, they can inspire goals and voluntary action at the state and local levels through frameworks like dashboards, metrics, and integrated planning. Predictably over time, local governing bodies tend to introduce ever more restrictive laws, regulations and mandates that impact the daily lives, household budgets, and responsibilities of homeowners. This is especially true in states with powerful environmental agencies, such as the California Coastal Commission in California.

In coming years, homeowners should expect to see elements of SDG 6—a key subset of the UN’s global development agenda—trickle down to evolving local regulations on water efficiency, infrastructure upgrades, and contamination mitigation, driven by claims of:

  • Aging pipes
  • Climate-induced water scarcity, and
  • Increasing water pollutants, like lead and PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances)

These areas of water management directly correlate to SDG water-related goals (AKA targets) that promote equitable access, efficiency, and quality in residential settings.

Depending on the eventual actions taken by your local jurisdictions, non-compliance could raise utility bills and insurance premiums, and/or reduce property values, especially in water-stressed areas, such as California and other Southwest states. While tempering overreaction, homeowners should plan to explore the pros and cons of retrofitting their homes, assessing rebates, and staying informed on water-related bills like the reintroduced WATER Act.

 

Key SDG 6 Initiatives Homeowners Should Understand

Below, we detail the key SDG 6 water targets of most relevance to US-based homeowners, their implications, and preparation steps amid anticipated 2025-2030 regulatory shifts. Targets 6.A (International Cooperation) and 6.B (Community Participation) are less directly applicable, but encourage homeowner advocacy through local water boards or initiatives like Habitat for Humanity’s “Health Begins with Home,” which links stable housing to reliable water access.

 

Target 6.1: Accessible and Affordable Drinking Water

Target 6.1: By 2030, achieve universal and equitable access to safe and affordable drinking water for all

SDG Water Goal 6 Target 6.1

This target addresses safe, affordable water supply, including household connections and quality monitoring. In the US, related challenges involve lead service lines (affecting 9 million homes, according to the EPA) and affordability (12-19 million households struggle to pay water bills, according to the EPA). Target 6.1 pertains to homeownership by mandating safe in-home water delivery, influencing property inspections and financing.

US Homeownership Implications: Federal rules like the EPA’s 2024 Lead and Copper Rule Improvements require utilities to replace all lead pipes nationwide by 2030-2040, often at no cost to homeowners via grants. The WATER Act (reintroduced in May 2025) would allocate funds for this, plus alternative supplies in contaminated areas, reducing health risks and boosting resale values. In drought-prone states, restrictions on new developments without efficient systems could limit home sales.

Homeowner Preparations:

  • Test home water for lead/PFAS; replace filters if needed.
  • Apply for no-cost lead pipe replacements under the WATER Act—contact your utility starting in 2026.
  • Budget for $500–$2,000 in point-of-use filters, if delays occur
  • Monitor state affordability programs (e.g., California’s Water Affordability Program) for bill assistance.

 

Target 6.2: Safe Sanitation Systems

Target 6.2: By 2030, achieve access to adequate and equitable sanitation and hygiene for all and end open defecation

SDG Water Goal 6, Target 6.2

Focused on safe sanitation systems, this target is largely met in the US, but ties to septic maintenance and wastewater handling in rural/suburban homes. It emphasizes equity for vulnerable groups, like low-income or aging homeowners.

US Homeownership Implications: The EPA provides national guideline standards for septic systems (serving 20% of US homes) to prevent groundwater pollution. The Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (BIL, 2021) includes funds for septic upgrades through 2026, extending to 2030 via proposed bills like the Water Infrastructure Modernization Act of 2025. Home sales often require inspections, with failures delaying closings or requiring repair costs ($5,000–$12,000).

Homeowner Preparations:

  • Schedule annual septic inspections ($200–$900) and tank pump checks every 3–5 years to avoid state fines.
  • You may have to retrofit to low-water toilets under WaterSense labels during renovations—anticipate point-of-sale mandates in states like Colorado by 2027.
  • Consider joining community programs (e.g., Habitat’s Aging-in-Place Guidelines) for subsidized upgrades, enhancing hygiene and home resilience.

 

Target 6.3: Water Quality, Wastewater Pollution, Reuse

Target 6.3: By 2030, improve water quality by reducing pollution, eliminating dumping and minimizing release of hazardous chemicals and materials, halving the proportion of untreated wastewater and substantially increasing recycling and safe reuse globally.

SDG Water Goal 6, Target 6.3

This target addresses pollution reduction and wastewater treatment. US homes contribute via household chemicals, leaks, and greywater discharge.

US Homeownership Implications: EPA guidelines under the Clean Water Act indirectly encourages residential recycling (e.g., greywater for irrigation). The Bipartisan Infrastructure Law of 2021 provides some funding for PFAS remediation (affecting approximately 165 million people). In urban areas, stormwater fees penalize non-permeable yards, tying to property taxes.

Homeowner Preparations:

  • Consider installing a greywater system ($2,200–$5,500, look for rebates via state or city funds) for reuse.
  • Avoid pollutants: Use eco-friendly cleaners; dispose of medications at take-back sites to prevent septic contamination.
  • Prepare for EPA’s National Primary Drinking Water Regulation (NPDWR) for PFAS: Local water utilities will be responsible for testing and compliance, not individual homeowners. By 2027, you can expect to receive information from your utility in your annual Consumer Confidence Report (CCR), if PFAS were detected in their testing. If your system exceeds the federal limits, the utility will be required to take action to lower the levels by 2029. The EPA’s regulations do not apply to private wells, but homeowners would be responsible for any testing and treatment. Consider testing wells annually ($300-$600) and apply for remediation grants under the WATER Act.

 

Target 6.4: Water-Use Efficiency and Water Scarcity

Target 6.4: By 2030, substantially increase water-use efficiency across all sectors and ensure sustainable withdrawals and supply of freshwater to address water scarcity and substantially reduce the number of people suffering from water scarcity.

SDG Water Goal 6: Target 6.4

Efficiency is core here, as the average US home uses more than 300 gallons per day, according to the EPA. The U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) announced in January of 2025 that “nearly 30 million people live in areas where available surface-water supplies are limited relative to water use”. In turn, this has been interpreted by some media outlets as “water supply for 30 million Americans at risk.” In parallel, the World Economic Forum began declaring in October 2022 that the world is facing a water crisis:

The world is facing a water crisis – it’s estimated that by 2030 global demand for water will exceed sustainable supply by 40%. — World Economic Forum

US Homeownership Implications: The Department of Energy (DOE) mandates efficient fixtures, but a May 2025 memorandum by the Trump Administration rescinded low-flow rules for showerheads/faucets (reverting to 2.5 GPM max). Countering this, the Alliance for Water Efficiency is promoting tax-free rebates (Water Conservation Rebate Tax Parity Act) for water-efficient fixtures. Additionally, states like California are phasing in restrictions on using potable water to irrigate non-functional turf.

Homeowner Preparations:

  • Install smart water leak detectors ($100–$1,000) for real-time monitoring—federal grants via the WaterSMART program are available 2025–2029.
  • Compare the tradeoffs of upgrading to WaterSense fixtures: usage experience vs. water usage levels vs. cost savings.
  • Consider replacing non-functional turf with xeriscaping; look for rebates, especially in Basin states, such as California, Nevada, Arizona, and Colorado.
  • Anticipate xeriscape-related and fire-resilient mandates in western states in the coming years (e.g. California’s Zone Zero Mandate)
  • Monitor DOE revisions for any reinstated standards.

 

Target 6.5: Integrated Water Resources Management (IWRM)

Target 6.5: By 2030, implement integrated water resources management at all levels, including through transboundary cooperation as appropriate.

SDG Water Goal 6: Target 6.5
This target promotes holistic planning, including transboundary and local coordination. For homes, it largely means aligning with utility plans.

US Homeownership Implications: EPA’s National Water Program Guidance (FY 2025–2026) encourages utilities to integrate residential efficiency into IWRM, potentially affecting HOAs and municipal rates. The Water Rights Protection Act of 2025 protects private water rights, preventing federal overreach in scarcity zones.

Homeowner Preparations:

  • Participate in local water planning (e.g., via town halls) to influence usage policies and rates.
  • If you live in an HOA Community, research the plausibility and tradeoffs of using IWRM technology (e.g. logistics; initial costs; on-going savings; usage restrictions).
  • Consider diversifying your water sources: e.g. install a rainwater harvesting system ($3,000–$5,000, while searching for rebates or tax credits).

 

Target 6.6: Protect and Restore Water-Related Ecosystems

Target 6.6: By 2020, protect and restore water-related ecosystems, including mountains, forests, wetlands, rivers, aquifers and lakes.

SDG Water Goal 6: Target 6.6

This target aims to safeguard wetlands/rivers impacting water supply. Homes near these water-related ecosystems (e.g., floodplains) face restrictions.

US Homeownership Implications: The 2023 Supreme Court ruling in Sackett v. EPA significantly limited the EPA’s authority over wetlands. The decision specified that federal protections apply only to wetlands with a “continuous surface connection” to a larger body of water, essentially removing federal oversight for many “isolated” wetlands. BIL funds restoration, benefiting downstream homeowners.

Homeowner Preparations:

  • Assess flood risk (e.g. reference FEMA maps).
  • Consider installing permeable driveways and walkways ($5–$10/sq ft) to reduce runoff.
  • Plant native vegetation for rebates under state ecosystem programs.

 

Forward-Looking Advice for US Homeowners

While there is no certainty of how or if one’s local governing bodies may adopt any of these global water initiatives, it is certainly worthwhile to become aware of these realistic possibilities.

Whether you agree or not with any of these goals, we strongly recommend that you participate in your local planning process. For instance, even when everyone may agree on an end goal, a poorly planned, budgeted or implemented program can fail. Holding local politicians, bureaucrats, and utility leaders accountable throughout the process is critical. Said another way:

a great idea can turn into a nightmare for local residents, if it is incompetently designed, implemented, funded or priced.

That said, here are a few suggestions that we think are worth proactively considering that can reduce water costs, increase efficiency, improve quality, or increase the value of your home, while not negatively impacting your daily lifestyle:

  • Invest in smart water leak detectors:
    • The average cost of water damage repairs in the U.S. is about $11,000 per claim
    • Water damage results in an estimated $13 billion in property losses annually across the United States
    • 1 in 60 homes will file a water damage claim each year
    • A crack an eighth of an inch can leak up to 250 gallons of water in just a single day.
    • (Data source: Restoration of Grand Rapids)
  • Invest in systems to improve the quality of your home’s water (e.g. water filtration and water softerners)
  • Leverage xeriscaping and/or native plants to foster low-maintenance outdoor spaces, reduce watering needs, and enhance fire resilience through firescaping
  • Research to find rebates or tax credits for any energy/resource efficient systems under consideration
  • Proactively inspect your home’s sewer lines and consider non-invasive CIPP repair when a fix is necessary
  • Investigate efficient ways to reuse water, especially for landscaping needs (e.g. rainwater harvesting)
  • Stay abreast of new water products and technologies for enhanced wellness and efficiency benefits
  • When upgrading your hardscape, consider installing permeable paving to experience a wide range of benefits

Getting back to the topic of accountability, keep in mind that according to this SDG progress chart published by Statista, many of these target initiatives are not progressing favorably, including SDG 6 – Clean Water and Sanitation (3rd row from the bottom):

SDG Progress Table as of 2025 published on Statista

SDG Progress Table as of 2025 published on Statista
Image courtesy of Statista

 

Additional Recommended Plumbing Reading

 

Purgula is reader-supported. When you click on links to other sites from our website, we may earn affiliate commissions, at no cost to you. If you find our content to be helpful, this is an easy way for you to support our mission. Thanks! Learn more.