Productivity and Efficiency
According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, water efficiency is the smart use of our water resources through water-saving technologies and simple steps. Using water efficiently will help ensure reliable water supplies today and for future generations. Topics addressed in this theme provide insights, lessons, and guidance on how diverse stakeholders are working to improve water management and reduce water use.
Productivity and Efficiency Resources
Hidden Oasis: Water Conservation and Efficiency in Las Vegas
Published:
November 26, 2007Pacific Institute
The report finds that the Southern Nevada Water Authority, which provides water to Las Vegas and surrounding communities, can tap a number of tested, cost-effective efficiency measures to cut current water waste by up to 86,000 acre-feet. Moreover, by improving indoor water efficiency in particular...Read more
More with Less: Agricultural Water Conservation and Efficiency in California
Published:
September 8, 2008Pacific Institute
This report offers a comprehensive analysis of how to maintain a strong agricultural economy while improving the efficiency of water use and reducing groundwater overdraft and water withdrawals from the critically threatened Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta.Read more
Energy Implications of Bottled Water
Published:
February 19, 2009Pacific Institute
This article analyses the energy requirements for various stages in bottled water production, including the energy to manufacture the plastic bottles, process the water and the bottles, and transport and cool the final product.Read more
Overview of Greywater Reuse: the Potential of Greywater Systems to Aid Sustainable Water Management
Published:
November 18, 2010Pacific Institute
This paper provides a broad overview of the state of greywater implementation and policy, with a special emphasis on the Middle East. It examines the potential of greywater to reduce the water and energy intensity of water uses, and it analyzes key issues that must be addressed for greywater to be...Read more
Water for Energy: Future Water Needs for Electricity in the Intermountain West
Published:
November 3, 2011Pacific Institute
This analysis evaluates future water needs for different energy futures and identifies a growing risk of conflicts between electricity production and water availability in the U.S. Intermountain West. The new report also identifies strategies to ensure the long-term sustainable use of both...Read more
Key Issues in Seawater Desalination in California: Costs and Financing
Published:
November 27, 2012Pacific Institute
This report assesses desalination costs, financing, and risks associated with desalination projects. Read more
Sustainable Water Jobs: A National Assessment of Water-Related Green Job Opportunities
Published:
January 1, 2013Pacific Institute
The report finds that proactive investments increasing efficient water use and re-use will both address growing problems associated with drought, flooding, and contamination and create jobs in a wide range of professions. Read more
Assessing Water Affordability: A Pilot Study in Two Regions of California
Published:
August 14, 2013Pacific Institute
The study's results show that a significant number of areas within water systems have unaffordable rates, even if the system as a whole does not, and so it may be more important to consider household income rather than median income when assessing and addressing water affordability.Read more
Water-Energy Synergies: Coordinating Efficiency Programs in California
Published:
September 4, 2013Pacific Institute
The report examines the barriers to coordinated water and energy efficiency programs and uses case studies to discuss ways that several California utilities have been able to overcome these barriers.Read more
Key Issues in Seawater Desalination in California: Marine Impacts
Published:
December 11, 2013Pacific Institute
This report examines effects on the marine environment associated with the construction and long-term operation of seawater desalination plants, including withdrawing water from the ocean and discharging the highly concentrated brine.Read more
Don't see what you're looking for? You can search USWP member sites, request a resource, or contact the USWP.