Toilet-to-Tap Project in Tucson, AZ

In a time where water scarcity is becoming an increasingly pressing issue, the potential of recycled water to revolutionize sustainable development cannot be overstated. By integrating advanced wastewater treatment systems into urban planning, cities can address critical environmental challenges and ensure a reliable water supply for future generations. The innovative use of recycled water stands as a beacon of hope, promising a more resilient future for communities worldwide.

Tucson is taking a significant step towards water sustainability by building its first facility to turn recycled wastewater into drinking water. This project, often referred to as “toilet-to-tap,” is funded by the Bureau of Reclamation and aims to reduce the city’s dependence on Colorado River water. 

The initiative is part of a broader vision to create a hydro-local community that values and stewards local water resources. The new facility will treat recycled water to meet EPA drinking water standards, adding diversity to Tucson’s water supplies and addressing increasing PFAS contamination in local groundwater wells. This project is a proactive response to required cuts in Colorado River water allocations, showcasing Tucson’s commitment to water conservation and sustainability. 

Watershed Management Group (WMG) envisions a hydro-local Tucson, where local water resources are prioritized over distant aquifers and rivers. By reusing water multiple times locally, Tucson can extend the use of its limited water supplies and contribute to the health of both local rivers and the Colorado River system. Tucsonans have been reducing their water usage, with the current average at 74 gallons per person per day. WMG aims to further reduce this to 40 gallons per person per day, which could potentially eliminate the need for Colorado River water entirely. Recycled water is already being used to enhance flows in the Santa Cruz River, recharge aquifers, as well as irrigate schools and parks. WMG advocates for prioritizing groundwater recharge and river flow over less critical uses, like golf course irrigation.

Tucson's approach to water recycling exemplifies a forward-thinking commitment to sustainability and resource management. By transforming wastewater back into our most valuable resource, the city is not only addressing immediate water scarcity challenges but also setting a precedent for other communities to follow. The "toilet-to-tap" initiative underscores the importance of local water stewardship and the potential for recycled water to secure a resilient future. As Tucson continues to reduce its water usage and prioritize local resources, it paves the way for a hydro-local model that could revolutionize water management practices nationally.