Contaminants of Emerging Concern (CEC) refers, in general to pharmaceuticals and personal care products that are used by individuals for personal health or cosmetic purposes.  CEC include a diverse collection of difference chemicals, including prescription and over the counter drugs, fragrances, cosmetics, sun-screens, and vitamins.

As analytical methods have improved, these compounds are being found at very low levels in the environment.  The fact that a substance is detectable does not mean the substance is harmful.  To date, research has not demonstrated an impact on human health from the tiny amount of CEC that have been found in water.

Using cutting-edge analytical instruments, 2 compounds were detected in Clear Creek at almost indescribably low levels – they were found at levels as low as parts per trillion which is the equivalent of ½ teaspoon of salt in 1,000 Olympic-size swimming pools.  For a list of these compounds and the concentrations in which that were detected in the water, view the Lab Report.

Golden will continue to work closely with others in the drinking water industry to increase our understanding of this issue and will take whatever steps are necessary to continue to protect the health of our customers.

Golden has been cooperating with the Institute for Environmental Solutions (IES) on a pilot project that focuses on providing community education to proactively reduce and prevent the contamination of the water we send down the drain.  IES is a local non-profit that uses science and community involvement to address environmental challenges.  The project is directed by a steering committee that includes members from the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment, Colorado State University, EPA, Jefferson County, New Belgium Brewing Company, and Roche Colorado Corp., along with other interested parties and is funded through in-kind contributions of the steering committee members and a grant from the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment. 

More information about this effort and educational materials from IES.