Rethinking Water in Los Angeles

This month I’ll be attending the American Water Summit in Los Angeles, which has adopted the theme?“Rethinking Water”.

The event arrives at an important time for the water sector in North America – and for California. For the past several years we’ve been focused on the severe drought in the Western US, while in recent weeks we’ve also been reminded of the other face of climate change – devastating storms and flooding. It really is an important time to Rethink Water.

I’ll be moderating a session at the Summit focused on water and the circular economy. We’ll be looking at water reuse and the value of wastewater in drought-prone regions like California, as well as the recovery of other valuable resources like energy and fertilizers. In addition to the environmental and societal benefits of water reuse and resource recovery, we’ll examine the prospect of monetizing the circular economy. Can water and wastewater treatment pay for itself? I’ll be joined by an international panel of utility leaders, technologists, and market experts to dig into this question. ?

As California moves forward with a portfolio of transformative water reuse programs, it will be fascinating to reflect on how wastewater is being harnessed as a valuable resource elsewhere. ?

I also look forward to the latest inauguration into Leading Utilities of the World, for which 嘉科工程 is foundation sponsor. At the American Water Summit, we’ll be welcoming new several new members. LUOW recognizes and connects innovative water and wastewater utilities from across the world – and as we Rethink Water, such industry collaboration and knowledge-sharing will be key. ?

We’re also Rethinking Water at a time of historic federal infrastructure investment. In a session discussing the new landscapes for financing, Joel Paulsen, Executive Director of the Metro Flood Diversion Authority, will reflect on the Fargo-Moorhead Metro Flood Diversion Project. Jacobs supported the Authority as program manager for this major flood risk management project, which incorporated innovative funding and implementation models.

Finally, the Summit will wrap up with The Great PFAS Debate. It’s an important topic to end on. Drinking water quality is top of the agenda for many of our utility partners across North America, and my colleague Scott Grieco will be sharing his views on PFAS regulations and treatment opportunities. I look forward to it!?