Author of “The Future of Water” and a long-time strategic consultant and transactional advisor to the water industry, Maxwell will review current challenges and opportunities in the world water market, and will highlight four critical trends which will increasingly categorize the water business and water decision-making over the longer-term future.
Water is our most essential resource for life, the economy, and has no substitute. However, water demand is increasing with population growth while supply remains fixed. As water becomes scarcer, political conflicts are likely to emerge. Currently, many people live without access to clean water and infrastructure in the US and elsewhere is failing. Climate change will exacerbate water challenges. By 2050, half the world's population may face water stress. Solutions include conservation, reuse, technology advances, and better management of water as a valued resource rather than a right. Water prices will need to rise to reflect its true cost and value to shape sustainable use.
The Water Authority's viewpoint on a Bay-Delta fix, costs associated, and how MWD's commitments to the funding of such a fix may affect the San Diego region.
The document summarizes several events and topics discussed by the Kern-Kaweah Chapter of the Sierra Club, including:
1) An upcoming seminar on straw bale home construction.
2) Discussion at a regional environmental justice conference of various local environmental concerns like air and water quality.
3) Comments from a water policy conference around balancing water availability and costs, including the role of conservation and native plants.
4) A Sierra Club candidate forum for a local election addressing issues like urban sprawl, transportation, and air quality.
Cassandra McKinney is the Director of the new Green Economy and Sustainable Water Center located in Grayslake, Illinois. The Center seeks to preserve and protect water quality and quantity in Northeastern Illinois by connecting business, academia, utilities, non-profits and government to promote sustainable water practices and jobs. McKinney discussed developing the Center's vision and goals, becoming a hub for information sharing, and translating research into educational programs to increase sustainable water adoption and prepare students for related careers. She is interested in forming an advisory group with key partners.
CommonHealth is the employee wellness program for the Commonwealth of Virginia.
Since 1986 the Commonwealth of Virginia has offered CommonHealth to promote wellness in the workplace. More than 500 agency locations in the Commonwealth of Virginia have active CommonHealth programs.
San Diego County's water supply faces ongoing challenges due to its semi-arid climate, reliance on imported water sources like the Colorado River and Bay-Delta, and potential impacts of climate change. While the recent drought has ended, maintaining water use efficiency remains important. The San Diego County Water Authority is in ongoing rate disputes with the Metropolitan Water District, arguing that MWD's rate structure overcharges water agencies like itself. A court decision on the lawsuit is expected in early 2012.
Water is our most essential resource for life, the economy, and has no substitute. However, water demand is increasing with population growth while supply remains fixed. As water becomes scarcer, political conflicts are likely to emerge. Currently, many people live without access to clean water and infrastructure in the US and elsewhere is failing. Climate change will exacerbate water challenges. By 2050, half the world's population may face water stress. Solutions include conservation, reuse, technology advances, and better management of water as a valued resource rather than a right. Water prices will need to rise to reflect its true cost and value to shape sustainable use.
The Water Authority's viewpoint on a Bay-Delta fix, costs associated, and how MWD's commitments to the funding of such a fix may affect the San Diego region.
The document summarizes several events and topics discussed by the Kern-Kaweah Chapter of the Sierra Club, including:
1) An upcoming seminar on straw bale home construction.
2) Discussion at a regional environmental justice conference of various local environmental concerns like air and water quality.
3) Comments from a water policy conference around balancing water availability and costs, including the role of conservation and native plants.
4) A Sierra Club candidate forum for a local election addressing issues like urban sprawl, transportation, and air quality.
Cassandra McKinney is the Director of the new Green Economy and Sustainable Water Center located in Grayslake, Illinois. The Center seeks to preserve and protect water quality and quantity in Northeastern Illinois by connecting business, academia, utilities, non-profits and government to promote sustainable water practices and jobs. McKinney discussed developing the Center's vision and goals, becoming a hub for information sharing, and translating research into educational programs to increase sustainable water adoption and prepare students for related careers. She is interested in forming an advisory group with key partners.
CommonHealth is the employee wellness program for the Commonwealth of Virginia.
Since 1986 the Commonwealth of Virginia has offered CommonHealth to promote wellness in the workplace. More than 500 agency locations in the Commonwealth of Virginia have active CommonHealth programs.
San Diego County's water supply faces ongoing challenges due to its semi-arid climate, reliance on imported water sources like the Colorado River and Bay-Delta, and potential impacts of climate change. While the recent drought has ended, maintaining water use efficiency remains important. The San Diego County Water Authority is in ongoing rate disputes with the Metropolitan Water District, arguing that MWD's rate structure overcharges water agencies like itself. A court decision on the lawsuit is expected in early 2012.
This document discusses water security issues facing Sydney and argues that a sustainable water cycle management approach is needed rather than short-sighted solutions like desalination. It suggests that a sustainable approach would involve using rainwater, recycled water and stormwater collection to ensure secure long-term water supply. This would be achieved through investing in dual reticulation systems, treatment plants, and local harvesting instead of relying on desalination, which does not address long-term infrastructure needs. The sustainable approach would also improve environmental flows and water quality while meeting new demand.
San Diego's Communication Strategy for Water 2015 Q3/Q4Julian Bergquist
Communication strategy for coordinating San Diego residents and stakeholders during state mandated water cuts leading up to the commissioning of the Carlsbad Desalination plant. Additional facts and figures supporting these talking points are available.
Water Abundance: Shifting the conversation from competing over a shrinking California water supply to creating an abundance of water for all our needs and uses.
This document discusses alternatives to building Hunter Dam to provide water for Springfield, Illinois. It presents information about 7,000 acres of undeveloped public land that could be an alternative water source and describes the ecological value of the land, including native trails, ravines, wildlife habitat and ancient oak trees. It also notes the historical Pensacola Tavern site. The document outlines concerns about building Hunter Dam, such as large areas of mudflats that would be exposed during drawdowns and risks of phosphorus pollution from eroding shorelines. It presents alternative water conservation strategies and sources used in other cities. The document questions whether expanding the city's reliance on coal plants and Hunter Dam is financially risky and environmentally appropriate.
A presentation to the city of Iowa City about a program that can be implemented online to help the community be more sustainable in their everyday lives.
The document proposes a water conservation device called the DropBox that can save half a gallon of water per toilet flush. It would help address growing water shortage issues and reduce environmental impacts. An employee engagement program is suggested to distribute 10 million DropBoxes in order to realize substantial water, energy, pollution, and cost savings benefits. Educational materials are also proposed to accompany the DropBox to increase awareness of water-related issues.
Clean Rivers, Clean Lake 8 -- Rainwater Harvesting/Residential - Sharon AdamsSweet Water
The document summarizes the work of Walnut Way Conservation Corps, a community development organization in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. It discusses how the organization formed in 2000 to promote healthy, diverse neighborhoods. It outlines the organization's work restoring housing, engaging neighbors, addressing stormwater issues, supporting youth programs like Gardens to Market, and their holistic approach to community revitalization through urban agriculture and environmental stewardship. The document highlights the organization's goals of establishing sustainable water systems like rainwater harvesting and greywater reuse to support their orchards and commons areas.
Totten Freshwater Challenges And Opportunities 09 26 08Michael P Totten
Freshwaster worldwide faces challenges now and increasingly more severe due to climate change and growing human demand. Are there win-win ways to conserve watersheds and freshwater species, while meeting human demand?
Presentation given at the San Diego County Water Authority's Water Planning Meeting on Oct. 25, 2012. To view agenda visit www.sdcwa.org/monthly-board-meeting-20
This document is a draft update to California's Urban Drought Guidebook from 2007. It was prepared by the California Department of Water Resources in cooperation with the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation and the California Urban Water Conservation Council. The foreword explains that the guidebook is being updated to help water suppliers prepare for potential drought or water supply issues in 2008. It provides an overview of the drought planning process and implementation steps involved, emphasizing cooperation between agencies and involvement of the public.
Water Wars: Policies for Sustainable Water UseJustin Bean
The document calls for federal regulation of the water bottling industry due to concerns about their negative social, environmental, and economic impacts on communities. It discusses how Nestle bottles more water than flows over Niagara Falls each year from communities like Michigan where they have paid little compensation for long term water leases and seen wells dry up. The document recommends policy changes like requiring community buy-in, equitable compensation for water removal, improved impact research, and incentives for more sustainable sourcing to address these issues while preserving the environment and benefiting communities long-term.
This document provides an introduction to water infrastructure issues in the United States. It notes that our drinking water and wastewater systems received a grade of D- due to aging infrastructure. It also discusses various challenges around water supply including population growth, conservation, climate change, and water rights battles between states. Real estate professionals are often involved in local water issues and need to understand the challenges around water infrastructure and supply.
The Philadelphia Water Department is proposing gradual rate increases over the next four years totaling $316 million to fund infrastructure upgrades and regulatory requirements. The increases will result in average annual bill increases of 6.5% per year for residential customers. Public meetings will be held to discuss the proposed increases and gather feedback from customers. Even with the increases, PWD rates are substantially lower than surrounding suburbs and the funds help maintain over 6,000 miles of pipes and other water infrastructure serving Philadelphia.
Charitable giving is an important indicator of civic involvement and community participation in Canada. While the percentage of Canadians donating to charities has decreased in recent years, the total amount donated has increased, likely due to population growth and more large donations. Donating supports charitable organizations that provide learning opportunities, social services, and help for those in need. Most Canadians report donating out of compassion for others rather than religious or tax-related reasons.
Massive flooding in Colorado inundated pastures and destroyed fences and infrastructure. Ranchers in Boulder and Weld Counties received over 26 inches of rain in just 3 days, compared to their average annual rainfall of 15 inches. The fast-moving floods stranded people and livestock. Though most cattle were evacuated, some ranchers lost their entire herds. Neighbors and the community banded together to help with rescue efforts and rebuilding. Recovery will take years as ranchers work to repair fences and clean fields of debris. Ranchers learned the importance of heeding weather warnings and having evacuation plans for future floods.
The survey collected responses from 35 individuals on priorities and barriers related to expanding local food production in Kane County, Illinois. Key priorities identified were improving public health (13 responses), stimulating local businesses (17), and making local food more accessible to all county residents (14). Top barriers selected were consumers being uneducated about local food benefits (17), lack of businesses supporting local food (10), and public policies not being supportive (12). The survey aimed to inform subsequent assessments on focusing the scope of local food issues in the county.
[Challenge:Future] Fresh water going down the drainChallenge:Future
The document discusses the growing threat of a global fresh water shortage. It proposes solutions to reduce fresh water usage such as dual water supply systems, storm water filtration, drip irrigation in agriculture, and dual-flush toilets. The goals are to significantly decrease the percentage of total accessible fresh water used by humanity and prevent worsening water scarcity. Regions already experiencing shortages could receive more water. The solutions aim to make cities more self-sustainable and conserve fresh water for future generations.
This document discusses water security issues facing Sydney and argues that a sustainable water cycle management approach is needed rather than short-sighted solutions like desalination. It suggests that a sustainable approach would involve using rainwater, recycled water and stormwater collection to ensure secure long-term water supply. This would be achieved through investing in dual reticulation systems, treatment plants, and local harvesting instead of relying on desalination, which does not address long-term infrastructure needs. The sustainable approach would also improve environmental flows and water quality while meeting new demand.
San Diego's Communication Strategy for Water 2015 Q3/Q4Julian Bergquist
Communication strategy for coordinating San Diego residents and stakeholders during state mandated water cuts leading up to the commissioning of the Carlsbad Desalination plant. Additional facts and figures supporting these talking points are available.
Water Abundance: Shifting the conversation from competing over a shrinking California water supply to creating an abundance of water for all our needs and uses.
This document discusses alternatives to building Hunter Dam to provide water for Springfield, Illinois. It presents information about 7,000 acres of undeveloped public land that could be an alternative water source and describes the ecological value of the land, including native trails, ravines, wildlife habitat and ancient oak trees. It also notes the historical Pensacola Tavern site. The document outlines concerns about building Hunter Dam, such as large areas of mudflats that would be exposed during drawdowns and risks of phosphorus pollution from eroding shorelines. It presents alternative water conservation strategies and sources used in other cities. The document questions whether expanding the city's reliance on coal plants and Hunter Dam is financially risky and environmentally appropriate.
A presentation to the city of Iowa City about a program that can be implemented online to help the community be more sustainable in their everyday lives.
The document proposes a water conservation device called the DropBox that can save half a gallon of water per toilet flush. It would help address growing water shortage issues and reduce environmental impacts. An employee engagement program is suggested to distribute 10 million DropBoxes in order to realize substantial water, energy, pollution, and cost savings benefits. Educational materials are also proposed to accompany the DropBox to increase awareness of water-related issues.
Clean Rivers, Clean Lake 8 -- Rainwater Harvesting/Residential - Sharon AdamsSweet Water
The document summarizes the work of Walnut Way Conservation Corps, a community development organization in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. It discusses how the organization formed in 2000 to promote healthy, diverse neighborhoods. It outlines the organization's work restoring housing, engaging neighbors, addressing stormwater issues, supporting youth programs like Gardens to Market, and their holistic approach to community revitalization through urban agriculture and environmental stewardship. The document highlights the organization's goals of establishing sustainable water systems like rainwater harvesting and greywater reuse to support their orchards and commons areas.
Totten Freshwater Challenges And Opportunities 09 26 08Michael P Totten
Freshwaster worldwide faces challenges now and increasingly more severe due to climate change and growing human demand. Are there win-win ways to conserve watersheds and freshwater species, while meeting human demand?
Presentation given at the San Diego County Water Authority's Water Planning Meeting on Oct. 25, 2012. To view agenda visit www.sdcwa.org/monthly-board-meeting-20
This document is a draft update to California's Urban Drought Guidebook from 2007. It was prepared by the California Department of Water Resources in cooperation with the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation and the California Urban Water Conservation Council. The foreword explains that the guidebook is being updated to help water suppliers prepare for potential drought or water supply issues in 2008. It provides an overview of the drought planning process and implementation steps involved, emphasizing cooperation between agencies and involvement of the public.
Water Wars: Policies for Sustainable Water UseJustin Bean
The document calls for federal regulation of the water bottling industry due to concerns about their negative social, environmental, and economic impacts on communities. It discusses how Nestle bottles more water than flows over Niagara Falls each year from communities like Michigan where they have paid little compensation for long term water leases and seen wells dry up. The document recommends policy changes like requiring community buy-in, equitable compensation for water removal, improved impact research, and incentives for more sustainable sourcing to address these issues while preserving the environment and benefiting communities long-term.
This document provides an introduction to water infrastructure issues in the United States. It notes that our drinking water and wastewater systems received a grade of D- due to aging infrastructure. It also discusses various challenges around water supply including population growth, conservation, climate change, and water rights battles between states. Real estate professionals are often involved in local water issues and need to understand the challenges around water infrastructure and supply.
The Philadelphia Water Department is proposing gradual rate increases over the next four years totaling $316 million to fund infrastructure upgrades and regulatory requirements. The increases will result in average annual bill increases of 6.5% per year for residential customers. Public meetings will be held to discuss the proposed increases and gather feedback from customers. Even with the increases, PWD rates are substantially lower than surrounding suburbs and the funds help maintain over 6,000 miles of pipes and other water infrastructure serving Philadelphia.
Charitable giving is an important indicator of civic involvement and community participation in Canada. While the percentage of Canadians donating to charities has decreased in recent years, the total amount donated has increased, likely due to population growth and more large donations. Donating supports charitable organizations that provide learning opportunities, social services, and help for those in need. Most Canadians report donating out of compassion for others rather than religious or tax-related reasons.
Massive flooding in Colorado inundated pastures and destroyed fences and infrastructure. Ranchers in Boulder and Weld Counties received over 26 inches of rain in just 3 days, compared to their average annual rainfall of 15 inches. The fast-moving floods stranded people and livestock. Though most cattle were evacuated, some ranchers lost their entire herds. Neighbors and the community banded together to help with rescue efforts and rebuilding. Recovery will take years as ranchers work to repair fences and clean fields of debris. Ranchers learned the importance of heeding weather warnings and having evacuation plans for future floods.
The survey collected responses from 35 individuals on priorities and barriers related to expanding local food production in Kane County, Illinois. Key priorities identified were improving public health (13 responses), stimulating local businesses (17), and making local food more accessible to all county residents (14). Top barriers selected were consumers being uneducated about local food benefits (17), lack of businesses supporting local food (10), and public policies not being supportive (12). The survey aimed to inform subsequent assessments on focusing the scope of local food issues in the county.
[Challenge:Future] Fresh water going down the drainChallenge:Future
The document discusses the growing threat of a global fresh water shortage. It proposes solutions to reduce fresh water usage such as dual water supply systems, storm water filtration, drip irrigation in agriculture, and dual-flush toilets. The goals are to significantly decrease the percentage of total accessible fresh water used by humanity and prevent worsening water scarcity. Regions already experiencing shortages could receive more water. The solutions aim to make cities more self-sustainable and conserve fresh water for future generations.
UNEP conducted a complex two-year assessment of pollution in Nigeria's Ogoniland region of the Niger Delta prompted by threats from the oil industry, finding excessive hydrocarbon pollution and highlighting the urgent need for a major cleanup to rectify health, livelihood and environmental impacts before the pollution spreads further. UNEP is also working to improve monitoring of shared water resources in Lake Tanganyika to protect its unique ecosystem, and encourages worldwide participation in water quality assessments through its GEMS/Water Programme to address global degradation of freshwater.
Klingbeil, R., 2015. Water for Sustainable Development - Water for the Future We Want. Presentation at the SQU-MRMWR-Workshop on Water & Sustainable Development, Sultan Qaboos University, Muscat, Oman, 18 Mar 2015.
Future of water Insights from discussions building on an initial perspective...Future Agenda
The initial perspective on the Future of water by Daniel Lambert and Michael O'Neill of Arup Sydney kicked off the Future Agenda 2.0 global discussions taking place through 2015. This summary builds on the initial view and is updated as we progress the futureagenda2.0 programme. www.futureagenda.org
This document discusses various artists, projects, and quotes related to issues of pollution, commercialization, worldwide perspectives, transport, landscapes/infrastructure, food/energy, and climate change as they relate to water. Some highlights include Chris Jordan's work on plastic pollution in the oceans, Nestle's view of water as a commodity, The Drinkable Book which aims to provide accessible drinking water, and Edward Burtynsky's body of work documenting human impacts on water systems and landscapes.
Fresh Water resources
Global Overview
Volume of water stored in the water cycle's reservoirs
Scarcity of fresh water
Water consumption for food production (I)
Competing water uses
Fresh Water supply
Problems related to Water crisis
Threats to fresh water resources
Distribution of population and water resources
Pressure of freshwater ecosystem
Fresh Water Outlook
Water in China
Desalination of sea water as fresh water supply
The document discusses tensions between India and China over the Brahmaputra River. It flows through both countries as well as Bangladesh. China's proposals to divert the river have concerned India. The search for water resources has been a source of tension since the 1962 war. Climate change is expected to reduce the river's water supply and increase flooding, impacting livelihoods and straining relations between the countries.
This document discusses water governance and politics around the world. It focuses on basin-level water governance in Brazil, specifically the Rio das Velhas basin. The basin committee for the Rio das Velhas, CBH-Velhas, is considered active and successful in reconciling water use between various stakeholders. It also highlights some local water issues, including the proposed Apolo mine in Serra do Gandarela and a dam in Santo Hipolito that could displace communities and impact water quality.
Water conservation is important for two main reasons: sustainability and energy conservation. Withdrawal of fresh water from ecosystems should not exceed natural replacement rates to ensure availability for future generations. Minimizing water use also helps conserve energy by reducing the need for pumping, delivery, and waste water treatment which require significant energy. While the water cycle naturally cleans and recycles water, human usage exceeds replenishment rates, depleting fresh water supplies as seen in India. Water conservation techniques like fixing leaks, running full loads of dishes and laundry, and limiting shower time can help solve this problem.
The document discusses how the third world war may be fought over water. As global warming accelerates glacier melting and pollution reduces usable surface water, while population growth increases water consumption sevenfold, water is becoming an increasingly scarce resource. Some areas are facing water stress as resources deplete. Unless habits and policies around water usage change, such as through conservation efforts and cooperative management of transboundary water sources, conflicts over dwindling freshwater supplies could escalate into open warfare between the "water haves and have nots," shaping global geopolitics in the 21st century as oil conflicts defined the 20th. The author calls for action now through water-saving practices to prevent an impending "water war."
The document describes a virtual field trip to World War 3. It discusses how students would be able to experience what a future world war might be like through an immersive virtual reality experience. They would witness the destruction of cities and loss of life from bombings and attacks in an effort to educate students on the horrors of war in a safe simulation.
The document discusses the water cycle and distribution of water on Earth. Most (97%) of Earth's water is saltwater found in oceans. The remaining 3% is freshwater, with 76% bound up as ice in glaciers and ice sheets and less than 1% available for human use. Water is constantly circulated through the water cycle, driven by energy from the sun. In the cycle, water evaporates from oceans and land into the atmosphere, forms clouds, and falls back to the Earth's surface as precipitation like rain or snow.
Water pollution occurs when pollutants are discharged directly or indirectly into water bodies from various sources such as factories, sewage treatment plants, agricultural and livestock farms, and urban settlements. Major causes of water pollution include improper disposal of sewage and industrial waste, oil spills, seepage from landfills, excess fertilizers and pesticides, and littering. Water pollution has wide-ranging negative impacts like endangering plant and animal species, causing eutrophication, contaminating food sources, and affecting human health. It also leads to significant economic losses for industries like fishing and tourism.
The document discusses water conservation and provides simple ways to conserve water. It explains that water conservation is important because people use fresh water faster than it can be naturally replenished. Some tips include only running full dishwashers and washing machines, adjusting sprinklers to avoid watering paved areas, watering lawns in the morning or evening to reduce evaporation, and washing produce in a pan of water instead of running the tap.
Water savings is energy savings:
Water not consumed saves energy
Water not transported saves energy
Water reused saves energy
Decentralized, ecological water treatment does all of the above
Water is a finite resource that exists in both freshwater and seawater forms. As the global population has grown, the demand for water has far exceeded the available supply. Agriculture accounts for 67% of global water usage, mostly for irrigation. Industry uses 21% globally, a percentage expected to rise with developing countries' economic growth. Domestic water usage makes up 10% but varies greatly between countries. Surface water and aquifers are the main sources, but overuse is causing issues like declining water tables and seawater contamination in some areas. Water poverty is linked to overall poverty, as lack of access to clean water hampers development and quality of life.
The document discusses the price of water in the United States. It notes that while the average American uses 183 gallons of water per day, less than 5% is used for drinking and cooking. Water levels in aquifers and rivers have decreased significantly in recent decades. Although the real price of water has decreased over the past 50 years, implementing full cost pricing that accounts for maintenance, capacity development, and environmental/social costs could promote conservation while ensuring long-term financial stability for utilities. Specifically, an increasing block rate structure in Tucson achieved similar water savings compared to a flat rate structure in Phoenix but with greater economic benefits.
Wesley Gee, CBSR - Managing Water from Strategy to Supply ChainCWS_2010
This document summarizes a presentation about managing water-related risks and opportunities from a business perspective. It discusses how high public expectations around water issues create both risks and opportunities for companies. An integrated water management approach is presented as a framework for considering not just a company's needs but also stakeholder and environmental interests. Key risks and opportunities related to water access, reputation, regulation, and efficiency are outlined. Examples of how risks and opportunities vary across business sectors are provided. The document concludes with an overview of tools and frameworks that can help with integrated water management assessments.
This document summarizes a presentation about managing water-related risks and opportunities from a business perspective. It discusses how high public expectations around water issues create both risks and opportunities for companies. An integrated water management approach is presented as a framework for considering not just a company's needs but also stakeholder and environmental interests. Key risks and opportunities related to water access, reputation, regulation, and efficiency are outlined. Examples of how risks and opportunities vary across business sectors are provided. The document concludes with an overview of tools and frameworks that can help with integrated water management assessments.
The document discusses various topics related to global freshwater resources including the hydrologic cycle, water scarcity by region, water use by sector, and virtual water content of common products. It also covers water pricing structures, water markets, institutional frameworks for water governance, and local movements for re-municipalizing water systems.
The document discusses the negative impacts of bottled water on the environment, health, and finances. It notes that bottled water production uses vast amounts of plastic and fossil fuels, contributing to pollution and climate change. Studies have also found associations between BPA in bottled water and increased risks of heart disease and diabetes. Canadians spend over $15 billion annually on bottled water that is often no safer than tap water. The document recommends using water filtration systems instead of bottled water to avoid these issues and protect the environment and personal health.
The {worlds|globes} {biggest|most significant|greatest|largest} {bottled water|mineral water} {brand|brand name} is going to {start|begin} {admitting|confessing} that it {comes from|originates from} the {exact|precise|specific} {same|very same} {source|resource} as the {tap water|faucet water} disdained by {snobs|pretenders}.
Extracting Water From the Air.
In the home, office, car, truck, boat, camping, military or remote base camp, as long ad there is air, you have got Water
1) Over 1 billion people lack access to safe drinking water and nearly 3 billion lack basic sanitation, resulting in diseases that kill 30,000 people per day.
2) Air Water Corporation produces machines that extract water from the air, providing clean drinking water to those who need it most.
3) These machines range in size from small portable devices producing 20-40 liters per day to large industrial units producing up to 5,000 liters daily for irrigation, with various models suited to different needs.
1) About 1.1 billion people lack access to safe drinking water and almost 3 billion lack basic sanitation, resulting in diseases that kill an estimated 30,000 people per day.
2) Air Water Corporation produces machines that extract water from the air, with the goal of providing clean drinking water to those who lack it most.
3) These machines can produce thousands of liters of water per day from the water vapor naturally present in the air, potentially helping address the global issues around lack of access to water.
The present condition of water situation in India and what can be done about the same. How individuals can contribute to water conservation. Right from recogising virtual water in everything we use, till changing behaviours to sustainability
Rate Structures, Fixed Costs, Declining Demand, Reduced Revenues: What Really...EMA-tucson
The document discusses how declining water demand is driving increases in water prices rather than the other way around, as many assume, due to water utilities having large fixed costs. It also critiques increasing block rate structures, arguing they are inequitable, inconsistent with cost of service principles, and do not effectively encourage conservation as intended because customers respond more to average price than marginal price. The author concludes rate structures need to be rethought to better align with costs of service and address the challenges of declining demand.
A keynote address by Dr. Alain Vidal of the CPWF to the Spiritual Transformation for
Sustainable Development: a Forum focusing on Carbon Dioxide Reduction and Efficient Use of Water, hosted by Thailand's AIT on November 3-4, 2009.
The conference seeks to discuss how spiritual values can complement political and economical processes and what can be done to increase the impact of ethical values on carbon dioxide reduction and efficient use of water. The primary purpose is to find ways and means for securing a sustainable society based on the long term ethical values common to all world religions.
The document discusses the importance of water conservation due to increasing water scarcity issues around the world. By 2025, 40% of the global population may experience water scarcity, rising to 40% by 2050 due to factors like population growth, pollution, and climate change. Water use in the US has tripled in the last 50 years. The document encourages individuals to construct a family water conservation plan and notes that recycling can help conserve water used in manufacturing.
This proposal suggests a tax credit for Utah residents who convert their water-intensive lawns into water-wise landscapes. Utah faces increasing water demands from its growing population, but receives little annual precipitation. Most residents use over half their water outside on lawns. The tax credit would cover costs of installing water collection, graywater, or other conservation systems. This would incentivize individuals to reduce water use, helping ensure sufficient long-term water supply as the population doubles by 2050. Estimates show residents could save over 29,000 gallons and $350 annually through such conversions.
This document discusses water as a commodity and Canada's water resources. It notes that while Canada has over 7% of the world's renewable water supply, 60% of it drains north while 85% of Canadians live south of the major water sources. The document outlines Canada's water treatment and allocation processes. It also discusses risks like pollution and the need for education and contingency planning to ensure sustainable water management in the future.
1) Bottled water experienced strong growth through the mid-2000s but saw declining growth and then reductions in volume during the economic downturn of 2008-2009. However, the reductions were smaller than for other beverage categories like carbonated soft drinks and sports drinks.
2) Through the 2000s, bottled water significantly grew its market share compared to carbonated soft drinks. By 2009, bottled water volume was nearly 8.5 billion gallons with 14.5% market share, up from 4.7 billion gallons and 9% market share in 2000.
3) While short-term economic conditions reduced bottled water demand, consumers' strong preference for bottled water over other beverages will support continued
This document discusses initiatives by the City of Atlanta Department of Watershed Management to improve the Proctor Creek Watershed. It outlines activities such as collecting water quality data, developing a watershed improvement plan, implementing best management practices and green infrastructure projects, and partnering with the EPA through the Urban Waters Federal Partnership to revitalize the watershed and surrounding communities. Specific projects discussed include installing a green street on Boone Boulevard using EPA grant funding and InvestAtlanta funding, and remediating contaminated soil at Mimms Park to allow for green infrastructure and park amenities.
This document summarizes a panel discussion on the challenges facing the Falls Lake watershed in North Carolina. It discusses the history of water quality issues in Falls Lake, the development of consensus principles to address nutrient management, and the reconfiguration of the Upper Neuse River Basin Association to help member jurisdictions comply with regulatory requirements. The panel examines the roles of adaptive management and science in reexamining the nutrient reduction goals, and the political factors that could influence the Falls Lake nutrient strategy.
This document discusses using technology and computing to improve energy efficiency. It notes that while making computing itself more energy efficient provides a 2% opportunity, using computing to enable energy savings outside of IT offers a much larger 98% opportunity, such as through smart grids for water utilities that combine innovative technologies like moisture sensors, remote sensing, and crowd-sourced data to better understand impacts on water quality.
This document summarizes a panel discussion on the challenges facing the Falls Lake watershed in North Carolina. It discusses the history of water quality issues in Falls Lake leading to stringent nutrient reduction requirements. The Upper Neuse River Basin Association (UNRBA) was refocused to help members meet these requirements through collaborative efforts like developing nutrient credits and an adaptive monitoring program. While making progress towards its goals, the UNRBA still faces challenges in balancing ecological science with public policy given the large costs of compliance.
This document provides an overview of the Edwards Aquifer, which supplies water to cities like San Antonio and supports endangered species. It notes the aquifer responds directly to pumping and recharge. There are increasing demands on the aquifer from municipal, agricultural, and industrial use that have led to lawsuits to protect spring flows and endangered species. Legal challenges have established minimum spring flow rates and established the Edwards Aquifer Authority to set withdrawal limits and regulate pumping versus spring flows.
The document discusses Target Field, the home stadium of the Minnesota Twins baseball team. It notes that outsiders may see fans as indifferent but they are just happy to be looking at the green grass. It also mentions that the stadium received LEED Silver certification, was built on a dense urban site, and over 40% of fans arrive via public transportation. The grass is kept above 36 degrees through a 41 mile tubing system heated by a nearby power plant so that games can be played.
The document discusses Dwane Jones, director of the Center for Sustainable Development at the University of the District of Columbia (UDC). The center provides research and education in areas like sustainable infrastructure and urban economics. It aims to integrate urban agriculture and urban stormwater management through projects, educational programs, and partnerships. The goals are to promote local food production, stormwater management, job creation, and public health improvements.
This document summarizes a presentation about opportunities for water reuse and the challenges of developing recycled water projects. It notes that there are over 90 recycled water project locations in development across 14 states, representing 890,000 acre-feet per year of additional water and $6.4 billion in projected costs. However, the projects require around $2.8 billion in additional financial assistance from state and federal sources to be completed. The presentation argues that a 50% cost share partnership would allow projects to be financially viable and completed more quickly, helping to address water shortages in many areas of the western United States.
This document discusses Kansas City's commitment to using the Envision sustainability rating system to evaluate civil infrastructure projects. The Envision system includes a self-assessment checklist, rating tool, credential program, and project evaluation program to help cities address sustainability across the triple bottom line of economic, social and environmental factors. Kansas City plans to use Envision as a guide for sustainability decisions on projects, empower staff to become Envision-accredited, and establish internal Envision specialists to implement the philosophy on existing and future projects.
Bruce Roll Urban and Rural Partnerships OWLS 14 PresentationU.S. Water Alliance
The document discusses partnerships between urban and rural areas in the Tualatin Watershed to address water quality and ecological needs through a community restoration program. It notes the importance of weaving existing local, state, and federal resources together to maximize benefits, ensuring most funds go directly to projects, and taking a watershed scale approach through voluntary incentive programs, restoration, efficiency, and conservation efforts across farms, cities, and individual actions. Goals include investing over $14 million from 2004 to 2018 from various public and private funding sources.
This document discusses precision conservation landscape analysis to save the Chesapeake's great rivers and special places. It aims to incorporate data to target conservation and restoration efforts, identify hotspots, direct outreach and funding, and design best management practices based on the landscape. The goal is to apply the right conservation practices in the most effective locations to maximize positive impacts.
EAHCP and Spring Cities Regional Asset Preservation in ActionU.S. Water Alliance
The document discusses the Comal and San Marcos Springs in Texas, which are major sources of river flows to Gulf of Mexico bays and estuaries. The springs are home to endangered species and are cultural and economic assets for the regions. Spring communities have developed HCP work plans to restore and improve habitat, mitigate the effects of recreation, and implement practices to protect water quality and flows to the springs. The plans include removing invasive plants and fish, stabilizing banks, contour terracing for erosion control, and delineating protected scientific study areas.
This document outlines Los Angeles' plan to increase local water supplies and decrease reliance on imported water through their LA's Water Reliability 2025 initiative. The plan combines groundwater remediation efforts with expanding local water supply programs, including capturing more stormwater runoff through both centralized projects and distributed, smaller-scale projects. The plan estimates that these local water supply expansion efforts could yield over 163,000 acre-feet per year of new local water at a total capital cost of $1.7 billion, reducing dependence on imported water and providing water reliability, economic, and environmental benefits.
The document lists several alternatives that involve different combinations of locations including parks, golf courses, rail yards, channels, and washes. Alternative 10 includes 5 locations. Alternative 13 includes those same 5 locations plus 2 additional channels and a river. Alternative 16 includes the locations from Alternative 13 plus 3 more areas. Alternative 20 contains the most locations, listing 12 different areas in total.
The document lists several alternatives that involve different combinations of 10 locations: Pollywog Park, Bette Davis Park, Los Feliz Golf Course, Taylor Yard, Taylor Yard Channel, Arroyo Seco, Piggyback Yard, Reach 5 Widening, Piggy Back Yard Channel, Reach 2 Widening, Verdugo Wash, and Cornfields. Alternative 10 includes 5 locations, Alternative 13 includes 6 locations, Alternative 16 includes 8 locations, and Alternative 20 includes 11 locations, with each subsequent alternative adding more areas to the combination.
The document discusses green-blue infrastructure initiatives in Los Angeles to manage stormwater runoff. It outlines watershed planning efforts and the use of green infrastructure like rainwater harvesting, green streets, and low impact development to improve water quality, increase supply, and provide other benefits. Examples of existing and planned projects are provided, like the South LA Wetlands Park and various stormwater capture facilities, demonstrating how stormwater can be utilized as a resource.
The document discusses strategies for increasing local water sources in Los Angeles from 11% today to 37% by 2035. It notes barriers to adopting more local water such as costs, lack of understanding of returns, and public distrust of government projects. It then highlights several projects that help overcome these barriers by putting people and communities at the center, such as native landscaping, greenways, permeable streets, school gardens, and playground improvements. Before and after photos of school projects show transformations that help engage the public.
The City of Los Angeles is working to comply with stormwater permit requirements and address 22 Total Maximum Daily Loads (TMDLs) impacting the city through watershed planning and four Enhanced Watershed Management Plans. The plans outline best management practices like green infrastructure to meet water quality milestones and permit obligations by leveraging resources and coordinating with stakeholders. Stormwater can be viewed as a water resource, and the plans present an opportunity to augment water supplies in a cost-effective and sustainable manner.
The document discusses challenges facing Los Angeles's water infrastructure including an increasing population, aging systems, and dependency on imported water. It outlines Los Angeles's approach through an Integrated Resources Plan to address these challenges through a regional, watershed-based approach involving stakeholder collaboration. Key aspects of the implementation discussed include expanding water conservation, stormwater management through projects like creek and park restoration, and increasing recycled water with a goal of 59,000 acre-feet per year by 2035 through projects like groundwater recharge. The plan has helped build partnerships and launch numerous sustainability programs.
The Sanitation Districts of Los Angeles County have a long history of water reuse and operate 11 wastewater treatment plants that treat over 500 million gallons per day of wastewater. Approximately 200 million gallons per day of treated water is recycled for reuse purposes, with the number of reuse sites increasing. Challenges for recycled water distribution include the high cost of infrastructure and balancing daily and seasonal supply and demand.
1. The Future
of Water
Recreation
Food
Steve Maxwell
U.S. Water Alliance
Cincinnati, Ohio
October 16, 2012
Energy
Survival
Luxury Life Transportation
2. The Future – What’s the Problem?
2
- The Supply of Fresh Water
on Earth is Essentially Fixed
- The Earth’s Population and
Its Demand for Freshwater
is Rapidly Growing
- Water Use Has Been
Growing At More Than
Twice the Rate of
Population Increase
Over the past Century
IT’S ABOUT THAT SIMPLE
3. The Future – Four Key Themes
3
1) Water will increasingly be viewed as a
true “factor of production”
2) Water consumption will increasingly
be viewed in a more holistic manner
3) Boundaries between different types
of waters will fade
4) The price of water will inexorably rise
– reflecting its true cost and value (and
reinforcing all three key trends above)
4. Water as a “Factor of Production”
4
Water will increasingly be viewed as
a true “factor of production” – much
like energy, labor or capital – in
economic, business, policy and
individual decision making
As water becomes more expensive, it
will increasingly drive economic,
and individual, decisions
Availability of abundant clean water will drive the
location of industry in the future
Will cities like Cleveland and Buffalo again be our centers of
manufacturing and population growth in the future?
5. A More Holistic View of Water
5
We only directly utilize some 50 to
300 gallons per day of water
But we consume far more water
contained in the products and
services that we consume, and the
various activities we engage in
We must also begin to consider our
total water footprint – the virtual
water that we consume as well
In the UK, 40 gallons/person/day
vs. virtual use of 1220 gallons
6. Managing “One Water”
6
The silo thinking of the past has kept
water use and water reuse interests
segregated
We must encourage comprehensive
thinking, planning, and management of
our waters – on the transformational
Clean Water scale now necessary Wastewater
Rain Water WATER Storm Water
Seawater “Wasted” Water
Groundwater Recycled Water
7. Rising Water Prices
7
The average family pays less than $20/mo. for Average Per Capita
Country Water Price Domestic Use
water – far less than monthly electricity, cable TV, (Gallons per Head
(Cents/Gallon) per Day)
internet, or phone service bills
Denmark 2.96 30.0
Yet there is strong political resistance to 5% or France 1.34 61.1
10% rate increases – probably less than what Germany 1.04 39.7
Australia 0.82 159.2
many spend monthly on bottled water! U.K. 0.69 36.6
Canada 0.64 204.7
Recent surveys indicate about a 5% annual Czech Rep. 0.53 56.1
Turkey 0.53 62.6
increase in water and sewer rates on average Japan 0.48 98.2
Portugal 0.47 81.1
Cost per 1000 gals. in the US – $0.80 to $5.50
Spain 0.46 90.0
U.S.A. 0.43 162.1
High variability in water prices across the
Poland 0.39 39.2
country, and around the world – Denmark pays Italy 0.31 127.1
South Korea 0.19 145.3
almost 3 cents per gallon, while the U.S. pays Mexico 0.19 52.6
Russia 0.16 96.8
about 4/10 of a cent per gallon
China 0.11 25.0
Unfortunately, the U.S. ranks near the bottom in India 0.05 36.6
terms of efficient water usage
8. The Price of Water
8
Price of Water vs. Price of
Other Consumer Liquids
($U.S./gallon) Annual Spending in the U.S.
Product Average Price
TAP WATER $0.0043
$2 billion a year on Viagra
$13 billion a year on cosmetic surgery
Coca-Cola $3.00
$22 billion a year on mood-altering drugs
Gasoline $4.00
Tide Liquid Detergent $8.50
Imported Beer $12.00 $45 BILLION A YEAR ON CLEAN
DRINKING WATER
Evian Bottled Water $25.00
Starbucks Latte $22.00
Pepto-Bismol $65.00 $52 billion on pet care
Vicks 44D Cough Syrup $100.00 $90 billion a year on tobacco products
$93 billion a year on legalized gambling
American Whisky $150.00
$160 billion a year on alcoholic beverages
Visine Eye Drops $750.00 $720 billion a year on military defense
Revlon Nail Enamel $1000.00
Good French Wine $1000.00
Chanel No. 5 Perfume $45,000.00
9. Water Prices: Background
9
Demand for water has begun to outstrip new supply
sources in many parts of the country – and the world
Prices – both for “raw” and delivered water – have begun
to increase, and are likely to accelerate in the future
The population continues to concentrate in urban centers
Major migration trends are towards more arid regions
Industrial production and economic output continues to grow
Per capita consumption grows as standards of living improve
There are increasing concerns about protecting “environmental flows” in the
country’s rivers and streams, to protect wildlife and recreation
New and alternative water supplies are often available only at high costs –
desalination, long-distance transfers, new dams/reservoirs
10. Raw Water Markets
10
In efficient markets, price information reflects
the value of the commodity – competition and
price signals promote efficient trading and allocation
Water markets, however, are very inefficient and are
typically subject to highly imperfect information and
competition; data are recent and anecdotal at best
Water markets are also very local in nature – often only meaningful at the regional
level of an individual watershed or river basin; few real functioning markets.
Individual water supplies are subject to great variability and uncertainty – in
terms of hydrology, legal status, chemical quality, dependence upon
infrastructure, and potentially, variable quantity over time
These market imperfections result in poor or non-existent price patterns and
signals; hence water is often not allocated very efficiently
11. Delivered Water Markets
11
Price data for delivered water are also spotty and difficult to obtain – and are
exceedingly difficult to compare on an apples-to-apples basis
Delivered water prices to the end consumer, however, are generally subject to
regulatory review and oversight, and hence maintain more consistency
Delivered prices have tended to show a consistent
increase, albeit at slightly lower annual rates –
and they rarely decline
Over the long-term , the price of delivered water in an
area must reflect the price and availability of raw water
However, over the shorter-term, various factors –
primarily various types of subsidies – may distort this
inevitable correlation
12. Raw Water Prices
12
Many regions in the West have seen recent and dramatic price increases –the
Santa Fe-Albuquerque corridor, Colorado’s Front Range, or eastern Washington.
These are some of the fastest growing urban areas and most arid regions in the
country. Collapse of the housing market caused short-term down trend in 2009 –
2011.
Middle Rio Grande Water Right Prices
(dollars per acre foot)
From 1990
through 2007,
16% annual
growth
From: Brown, “Surface Water
Opportunities in New Mexico” November,
2008 NMWRRI WestWater Research LLC, 2008
13. Delivered Water Prices
13
Delivered water prices show a similar trend – with steady and consistent
growth albeit at a slightly lower rate, and certainly with less volatility than seen
in raw water prices – this is due to the more regulated nature of delivered water
Evidence provided by recent studies suggest that delivered prices in the U.S. –
on average – have been increasing over the last decade of between 5% to 10%
per year, and that this annual growth rate is increasing over time
GWI estimates that average prices globally have recently grown at about 7%
However, growth rates are highly variable; this same study showed examples of
annual increases as high as 90% per year, and listed a number of areas of the
water where water remains a truly free service of the government
As in the case of raw water prices, although conditions are highly variable, the
underlying drivers and general trends are similar in all areas – and they
portend a future of more rapidly increasing delivered water prices
14. Delivered Water Prices
14
Data provided by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, also shows that the
price of residential water (here combined with sewerage) services have
grown at a rate well above the general Consumer Price Index
15. Conclusions – Future Water Prices
15
As the planet’s population increases, as global industrial output continues to
grow, and as standards of living around the world continue to creep upwards,
water scarcity and water stress will be experienced in more and more regions
The type of anecdotal price data shown here, from currently water-scarce
regions, are likely to be reflective of what will eventually be experienced in
other regions of the world. We should learn from these lessons.
It seems clear that delivered water prices must – over the longer-term –
eventually rise, to better reflect prevailing and self-evident trends in the
availability and hence the cost of raw water supplies
As water prices begin to more closely reflect a full-cost and
sustainable model, water management, water re-use and
conservation, and water allocation patterns will all improve
16. Water as a New Investment Class?
16
900
800
700
600
500
The data and the evidence is clear and growing …. in its
400
300
various forms, water will increasingly be thought of
200
100
0
as a separate investment class
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19 3
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20 4
19 9
19 0
19 0
19 1
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19 2
94
94
95
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20 9
20 0
20 0
20 1
20 1
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04
05
20 5
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20 8
09
8
9
9
9
9
9
9
9
9
9
9
9
9
9
9
9
9
9
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
19
19
19
19
20
20
GOLD SPOT $/OZ CRB COMMODITIES INDEX S&P 500 INDEX S&P Developed REIT Index TR
1990 - 2010
Value
Appreciation Water ~10-12%
Rate
Real Estate ~9%
Precious Metals - ~7%
Equities ~6%
Commodities 1–2%
Time
17. Future Trends
17
The commercial water industry will
continue to experience strong and
predictable – if not spectacular – growth
Water prices will continue to inexorably
rise – sharply in many areas
More efficient pricing and allocation
systems will emerge, by necessity
We must promote a broader and
deeper public understanding of
The key future challenge will be starting to
water issues manage water as an economic commodity,
In terms of water issues, we must while simultaneously
think globally, but act locally insuring that it
We must develop smarter laws is available to all
and policies