New Videos in the Library

The library includes more than a dozen videos offering insights from our advisors and community leaders on key sustainability issues. Two of the newest videos in our library are part of a series of interviews with Alliance Advisors and team members who were in attendance at this year's annual Sustainability Showcase Awards Luncheon.

Water-Energy Nexus
When it comes to reducing greenhouse gas emissions, most people immediately think of saving energy in the electricity and transportation sectors. Often overlooked is the significant amount of energy used to deliver and treat water.

Increasing the use of local water sources, including recycled water, can significantly reduce both the energy use and the greenhouse gas emissions associated with water consumption. In fact, a recent study by the Alliance estimates that accelerated development of available recyclable water could meet up to 16% of California’s energy efficiency goals.

In an interview with the Alliance, Cynthia Truelove, Senior Water Policy Analyst for the California Public Utilities Commission, discusses six measures identified through her work with the Governor’s Climate Action Team that would achieve greenhouse gas reductions in addition to those covered under California’s Global Warming Solutions Act (AB 32). These voluntary measures include: water recycling, renewable energy generation in the water cycle, water use efficiency, water systems efficiency, public goods financing, and storm water management.

To learn more, read the Alliance's recycled water study, or take a look at our other videos!

First Cost Barriers
California’s aggressive energy and climate change goals may be all for naught if we can’t afford to meet them. Fortunately, most sustainability measures – including smart growth, energy efficiency, conservation, and green building – will save money in the long run. Overcoming the initial cost of these programs is key to achieving the long-term monetary (and environmental) savings they will provide.

In an interview with the Alliance, Frank Spasaro, Manager of Energy Efficiency Partnerships for Sempra Energy Utilities, discusses state and national financing programs designed to help local governments and private organizations overcome the first cost barriers to sustainability initiatives.

Visit our video page to watch this interview and others from the Alliance!