Water Recycling in California: From Toilet to Tap

Overview

• California is seeking alternative water sources due to frequent storms and droughts.
• Water recycling, dubbed "toilet to tap," is gaining traction as a solution.

Current Water Situation

• Southern California discharges 1.3 billion gallons of treated sewage into the Pacific Ocean daily.
• Treated sewage is considered safe for ocean discharge but represents a wasted resource.

Orange County Water District

• Mike Marcus, General Manager, views sewage as an opportunity.
• The 623 million dollar water recycling plant converts treated sewage into drinkable water.
• This process is officially known as indirect potable reuse.

Water Purification Process

1. Microfiltration: Removes particles and bacteria.
2. Reverse Osmosis: Utilizes hundreds of tubes to eliminate dissolved minerals, viruses, and pharmaceuticals—achieves purity comparable to bottled water.
3. Ultraviolet Treatment: High-powered UV light zaps remaining contaminants.

• The end product is claimed to be cleaner than most tap water in the United States.

Output and Impact

• The plant produces 100 million gallons of drinking water daily, constituting about 25% of Orange County's water supply.
• Without recycling, this water would be lost to the ocean, especially critical during droughts.

Public Perception and Government Support

• Governor Jerry Brown supports this initiative as essential for addressing water scarcity and meeting a 25% cut in water use.
• Orange County's plant is the largest of its kind globally and has recently been expanded.
• Other regions, such as San Diego and Silicon Valley, are also exploring similar projects.

Overcoming the "Yuck Factor"

• Public officials, including mayors in Silicon Valley, have publicly tasted recycled water to normalize it.
• The necessity for water during prolonged droughts is shifting public attitudes towards acceptance.
• Quote from Marcus: "We can't afford to be picky about our water sources."

Conclusion

• The recycled water tastes like regular water, emphasizing its safety and necessity in water-scarce regions.
• Continued efforts in water recycling are seen as a way to combat drought and ensure water security.