Planning for Sustainability-Handbook for Water Utilities

In September 2010, EPA released the Clean Water and Safe Drinking Water Infrastructure Sustainability Policy which described EPA’s overall vision and priorities for ensuring the long term sustainability of water infrastructure and communities throughout the nation. The following handbook for water utilities is an EPA effort to focus on the project development phase to create cost-effective, resource efficient, community-specific projects satisfying all stakeholders. This guide is written with a focus on long term solutions which incorporate planning for sustainability considerations. Utility benefits include minimizing costs, maximizing results of investments, improving our analysis of alternatives, engendering greater community support, and ensuring successful financial strategies. The handbook should be used for strategic planning, capital planning, system-wide planning for regulatory requirements, specific infrastructure project planning, and long-range integrated water resource planning. You can expect typical processes (identifying goals, setting objectives, assessing alternatives, and developing financial strategies) in conjunction with an ongoing asset management program. Read on for details and examples to aid in planning for sustainability.