What is a significant environmental health risk associated with cross-connections in water systems?

Cross-connections in water systems refer to the unintended or improper connections between drinking water pipes and non-potable water sources. This can create a pathway for contaminants to enter the potable water supply. The significant environmental health risk here is the potential contamination of drinking water, which can lead to serious health issues for individuals who consume this water.

Contaminants such as chemicals, pathogens, or biological pollutants can be introduced into the water supply through cross-connections, posing a substantial public health risk. These contaminants can lead to waterborne diseases, gastrointestinal infections, and other health complications, emphasizing the importance of preventing cross-connections and ensuring that potable water remains uncontaminated.

In contrast, other options such as increased water pressure, soil erosion, or water scarcity do not directly relate to the specific health risks associated with cross-connections. Increased water pressure may affect system functionality but does not inherently pose contamination risks. Soil erosion pertains more to land and agricultural issues rather than water safety. Water scarcity is a separate concern related to overall water availability and sustainability but not specifically tied to the risks of contamination stemming from cross-connections. Therefore, the focus on contamination of potable water as the primary risk highlights the critical importance of maintaining safe and clean drinking water systems.