Practical, low-cost, easy-to-install solutions to California’s continuing drought

The need for a 21st century water management policy for California is abundantly clear.  Not only is a vision required, but also the leadership to overcome myriad bureaucratic and political obstacles to develop the necessary legislation to support the policy and implement it.  The resort to emergency mode earlier this year underscores the lack of a clear long-term plan to guide the competing demands for water in this state.  The issue is daunting, and its complexity has immobilized decision-makers.  The purpose of this paper is to suggest one pathway out that is quickly and easily achieved and can serve as a starting point, i.e., the immediate introduction of incentives for graywater and rainwater harvesting in California. 

I have tried both of these methods of water capture and reuse and have found them to be so compelling that I believe they should be integral to any effective water management scheme for California.  These easy solutions will not only minimize water wastage and protect the environment, but they will also create jobs, empower citizens to proactively manage their water use and lead to statewide savings of water and money.   

Both rain harvesting and graywater are intended for water uses other than drinking water (at present).  Yet, the actual effect of their use this way is to reduce the reliance on drinking water for purposes for which it is neither beneficial nor appropriate.  It leaves treated water for the ever-increasing numbers of Californians (according to population projections) who will need it for drinking purposes. The energy cost of treated water is high so if we can keep the energy cost fixed while serving more people we are ahead of the game.

Excerpt from Planet Experts Blog. See Full Article here.