Transcript:
In Orange County, California, wastewater in people’s homes is not considered a waste.
Instead of treating it and sending it to the ocean, Orange County purifies its wastewater through an additional three-step process. Every day, the county treats about 130 million gallons until it's safe enough.
Patel: “We then took high-treated, recycled water and then spread it on the surface of a series of lakes or ponds, and let it seep naturally or penetrate and replenish the aquifer.”
Mehul Patel in Orange County Water District. He said the aquifer is a key source of water for people living in the area.
Supplying it in this way helps buffer water supply, as climate change makes drought more frequent and severe.
Patel: “There is always wastewater treatment, so it is a source of drought protection for us.”
Orange County has now recycled wastewater for more than a decade. Patel said this approach could also help other areas prone to drought.
Patel: “These projects are necessary because if we want to maintain the same lifestyle as we live today, we will not be able to continue to rely on our traditional water sources. … It’s just one way we have to adapt to the ever-changing climate.”
Report Credit: Chavobart Digital Media
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