Gov. Gavin Newsom proposed a new water strategy this week. The $8 billion, 16-page plan seeks to increase California’s water supply.
As global warming and catastrophic drought continue, Newsom wants to enhance California’s water supply.
“Science and analytics tell us we’ll lose 10% of our water supply by 2040,” Newson said Thursday at a desalination facility.
“We have a newfound feeling of urgency to tackle this problem after gaining a better knowledge.”
“California’s Water Supply Strategy, Adapting to a Hotter, Drier Future” emphasises ways to improve water levels and make up for climate change-caused water loss.
Four key aims are to store 4 million acre-feet of storm water, recycle and reuse 800,000 acre-feet of wastewater per year by 2030, utilise more effective water conservation measures to free up 500,000 acre-feet of water, and desalinate more sea water.
Newsom: “We’re increasing supply.” “We’re making more water. How can we use current resources to make more water and catch more water?”
Newsom also expressed irritation with the bureaucratic process, which hinders climate plan implementation.
“It’s crazy, stupid, and hilarious how long these projects take,” remarked Newsom.
The plan proposal explains how the state would enhance water supply, but opponents say it doesn’t address how the state’s top water users may cut down.
Food & Water Watch: “The proposal includes no mention of limiting Big Ag and Big Oil”
According to the group’s research, California could save 82 million cubic metres of water annually by converting to solar and wind power.
The organisation said Newsom’s proposal depends largely on problematic projects like desalination, which uses fossil fuels, endangers marine life, and generates toxic brine.
“Frontline communities can’t afford desalination and neither can the ecosystem,” Tomás Rebecchi remarked. “Californians have repeatedly rejected boondoggle schemes.
Newsom should treat water as a human right, not a business commodity.”
Newsom said he won’t wait for voters to enact the proposal.
The governor added, “I’m excited.” “I’m excited about the creativity in this strategy, but more importantly, the feeling of urgency, intentionality, and concentration on genuine objectives and deliverables with deadlines and resources.