Water
Why 70% Local?
Context:
Importing our 90% of our water supply is an unsustainable equation. Snowmelt from the Sierra Nevadas up north and via the Colorado River from the east are becoming increasingly less reliable.
Even as we get intermittent ‘wet’ seasons – the region is experiencing “aridification” – which refers to a long term drying out that eclipses seasonal ups and downs. We simply won’t be able to reply on those sources forever.
Capturing storm water runoff before it reaches the ocean and recycling wastewater that we have already used is our path to a sustainable water future.
The supply is there, we just need the infrastructure to do it.
How do we get there?
- Invest heavily in stormwater capture infrastructure (underground storage, permeable asphalt, more greenspace.)
- Recycle and reuse wastewater that is already being treated and discharged back into the ocean.
Is the City on board?
Yes. Mayor Karen Bass and the Los Angeles City Council are working towards achieving that goal as part of the Green New Deal Initiative.
What are outside experts saying?
Consensus across the board pretty much.
Heal The Bay: agrees
LA2050: agrees
OurWaterLa: agrees