Description:

Water for Climate Action: Reducing GHG Emissions

Scientists say we have less than a decade to act on climate and secure a livable future. This hits home in the water sector, where climate impacts show up first and most often. However, it is becoming increasingly clear that water is also part of the climate solution. Over 10 percent of global greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions come from water-related activities, with more than three percent from water and wastewater utilities alone. 
 
As more water and wastewater utilities develop and implement climate plans, they are also stepping up on climate mitigation efforts. Utilities are working to decrease the sector’s dependence on fossil fuels and help cities and regions achieve critical GHG reduction targets. What’s even more exciting is that many of these climate actions deliver social, economic, and environmental benefits back to utilities and the communities they serve. 
 
This webinar will feature international and local perspectives on advancing climate mitigation through water. Speakers will provide insights from the recent Water Pavilion at the United Nations Climate Change Conference of the Parties (COP-26) in Glasgow, Scotland. Utilities in California and New Jersey will also share how they are implementing water conservation strategies, green energy projects, system efficiencies, and ecosystem protection to reduce direct and indirect emissions, ultimately reaching for carbon neutrality. 
 
Moderator:  
Katy Lackey, Senior Program Manager, US Water Alliance 
Speakers: 
Richard S. Dovey, President, Atlantic County Utilities Authority (ACUA) 
Cate Lamb, Global Director of Water Security, Carbon Disclosure Project 
Brian Mendenhall, Senior Water Resources Specialist, Valley Water