From sources to points of consumption: how water access and practices shape drinking water quality in a high-Arctic community

Abstract

Access to safe drinking water remains a critical challenge in remote northern communities in the Arctic, particularly those served by decentralized water systems. This study aims to assess overall access to domestic water and identify main challenges, including water quality assessment, with regard to various water use scenarios and household practices in communities served with truck-to-cistern distribution systems. A case study was conducted with the community of Mittimatalik (Pond Inlet) in Nunavut, Canada, and included a randomized household survey and water quality analyses for priority contaminants. Physicochemical parameters, microbial indicators, opportunistic pathogens, and heavy metals were evaluated from water sources to the point-of-use. Results revealed deteriorating water quality throughout the distribution system, with depleted chlorine residuals and elevated turbidity, relative to water quality guidelines. While source water showed relatively good quality, 19.4% of tap samples contained total coliforms, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa was detected in 32.3% of tap samples, suggesting potential biofilm formation. Lead concentrations exceeded Health Canada Guidelines in some locations, with one public building showing levels 20 times above the recommended limits. Household practices including point-of-use treatment and water storage in containers were associated with decreased microbiological quality, particularly when using filtration devices. A novel application of photoelectrochemical chemical oxygen demand (peCOD) measurements showed promise as an indicator of water quality deterioration. This study highlights the challenges of maintaining safe drinking water in Arctic communities and emphasizes the need for improved infrastructure and monitoring strategies adapted to northern contexts.