What is one challenge associated with aging water infrastructure?

One challenge associated with aging water infrastructure is the increased risk of leaks and higher maintenance costs. As infrastructure ages, materials such as pipes and joints can degrade due to corrosion, wear, and changing environmental conditions. This deterioration increases the likelihood of leaks, which not only results in water loss but can also lead to more significant issues like flooding and water quality degradation. Additionally, older systems often require more frequent repairs and upgrades, burdening local governments and utilities with escalating maintenance costs, which can strain budgets and impact service delivery.

The other options do not accurately reflect challenges posed by aging infrastructure. Improved efficiency of water distribution is typically associated with new or updated systems rather than aging ones. Lower demand for water services is unrelated, as demand may remain constant or increase regardless of infrastructure age. Lastly, enhanced capability to handle new technologies is generally a feature of newer systems designed to integrate modern advancements, not of aging infrastructure, which may lack the adaptability to incorporate such technologies effectively.