Orange County, California, operates the Groundwater Replenishment System, a facility that recycles secondary treated sewage into pure drinking water in under 45 minutes. This three-step process (microfiltration, reverse osmosis, UV light purification) provides 45% of central Orange County's water, reducing reliance on imported sources. The project serves as a blueprint for other water-scarce regions globally and in the US, despite high energy and manpower costs, offering a controlled and cost-effective water supply solution.
‘Tastes like water’: how a US facility is recycling sewage to drink
WaterRecyclingEthical and green livingWasteEnvironmentCaliforniaUnited StatesWest CoastWorld
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TL;DR: Key points with love ❤️Orange County, California, operates the Groundwater Replenishment System, a facility that recycles secondary treated sewage into pure drinking water in under 45 minutes. This three-step process (microfiltration, reverse osmosis, UV light purification) provides 45% of central Orange County's water, reducing reliance on imported sources. The project serves as a blueprint for other water-scarce regions globally and in the US, despite high energy and manpower costs, offering a controlled and cost-effective water supply solution.
Trending- 1 2008: Groundwater Replenishment System facility opened in Orange County.
- 2 16 February 2018: Facility won a Guinness World Records title.
- 3 October 2024: California's State Water Resources Control Board approved regulations for direct potable reuse.
- 4 Currently (June 2025): Facility continues to operate and serve as a blueprint. Los Angeles County and other states are building similar projects.
- Provides a sustainable and controlled water supply for Orange County.
- Serves as a model for other water-scarce regions.
- Reduces energy costs compared to desalination.
What: A facility in Orange County, California, is recycling sewage into drinking water.
When: Published 2025-06-06; Facility opened in 2008; Guinness World Records title on 16 February 2018; California's State Water Resources Control Board approved regulations for direct potable reuse in October 2024.
Where: Orange County, California, US; Pacific Ocean coastline; Anaheim, California. Also mentioned: Israel, Singapore, Kuwait, Los Angeles County, San Fernando Valley, Utah, Texas, Colorado.
Why: To address water scarcity, conserve water, reduce reliance on imported water, and diversify water supply due to extreme droughts and climate change.
How: Sewage undergoes a three-step process: microfiltration, reverse osmosis, and ultraviolet light purification, then is sent underground to replenish aquifers or act as a buffer against saltwater intrusion.