Cases in Water Conservation: How Efficiency Programs Help Water Utilities Save Water and Avoid Costs

Water utilities across the United States and elsewhere in North America are saving substantial amounts of water through strategic water-efficiency programs. These savings often translate into capital and operating savings, which allow systems to defer or avoid significant expenditures for water supply facilities and wastewater facilities. These case studies feature the efforts and achievements of 17 water systems. These systems range in size from small to very large, and their efficiency programs incorporate a wide range of techniques for achieving various water management goals. In every case, the results are impressive. The following summary table provides an overview of the case studies, highlighting problems addressed, approaches taken, and results achieved. In general, water conservation programs also produce many environmental benefits, including reduced energy use, reduced wastewater discharges, and protection of aquatic habitats.

US-EPA (2002): Cases in Water Conservation: How Efficiency Programs Help Water Utilities Save Water and Avoid Costs. Washington: United States Environmental Protection Agency URL [Accessed: 01.10.2013]