Growing Smart: How Charleston Can Balance Development and Environment

Charleston, Berkeley, and Dorchester counties are booming. New families and businesses are moving in, drawn by jobs and the Lowcountry's beauty. But growth brings challenges, especially protecting the area's water and marshes. Some people blame septic systems for water quality problems. They say these systems can't handle responsible development. But this view isn't entirely accurate. It might even lead to bad decisions based on beliefs rather than facts. Growth isn't slowing down. Thousands of new residents arrive each year. Housing is already scarce. Limiting development because of sewer availability won't stop growth. It will just push housing farther away from job centers, increase traffic, and make life more expensive. Centralized sewer systems are often seen as the best solution. They work well in many places. But they aren't perfect. They cost a lot, take time to expand, need energy, and can fail during storms. In coastal South Carolina, this is a big concern. Modern septic systems are not what they used to be. Today's systems include advanced technology. They can reduce nutrients and pathogens before wastewater reaches groundwater or surface waters. When designed and maintained properly, these systems can be a good solution.The real issue isn't septic versus sewer. It's about density. When too much development happens in one area, any wastewater system will struggle. Problems often blamed on septic systems are usually caused by too much density, poor planning, or lack of maintenance. Responsible planning means matching development with what the land can handle. Engineered septic systems, with the right lot sizes and maintenance, can support growth without overburdening public sewer systems or costing taxpayers a lot of money. Centralized sewer systems offer control. But individual systems require responsibility. Environmental policy should be based on results, not convenience. If the goal is clean water, strong infrastructure, and affordable housing, then modern septic systems should be part of the conversation. They are a proven, regulated tool recognized by South Carolina's environmental authority. Protecting the Lowcountry doesn't mean stopping growth. It means using the best science, engineering, and local expertise to meet today's challenges.