In this episode of H2O and Beyond, we head to Orange County California — home to one of the world’s most largest and most advanced water potable reuse systems called the Groundwater Replenishment System (GWRS). Join me as I explore how wastewater is transformed into clean, safe drinking water to be injected into their aquifers.

We'll break down the science of potable reuse, take a look at how Orange County has managed to address public perception, and hear firsthand from experts who are leading the charge in sustainable water innovation.

Timestamps below 👇

0:00 Intro

1:16 About Orange County

2:32 What is potable reuse?

4:35 Regulations/limitations on potable reuse

8:46 What prompted Orange County to pursue potable reuse?

11:46 What makes the Orange County potable reuse system unique?

14:03 Cost comparisons

18:14 Public perceptions and challenges

23:29 How successful is Orange County's potable reuse system?

24:21 How potable reuse helps with climate resilience

25:44 Research at Orange County

27:10 What can other communities learn from Orange County?

28:40 Where is potable reuse heading in the future?

29:50 Reuse is actually happening everywhere!

32:23 Ending

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https://www.ocwd.com/

https://www.instagram.com/ocwaterdistrict/?hl=en

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What happens after you flush? In this episode of H2O and Beyond, we go deep inside the Stickney Water Reclamation Plant—the largest wastewater treatment facility on Earth—serving millions across Chicago every day. From massive aeration tanks to advanced biosolid recovery, we break down how this engineering marvel treats over 1.4 billion gallons of wastewater daily. With Stickney's large size, some interesting things have happened - like finding a family of possums and 100$ in the wastewater! There are also some interesting things that go on in their laboratory, such as using the temperature of sludge to heat and cool buildings!

Timestamps Below 👇

0:00 Intro

1:09 What is the Chicago Metropolitan Water Reclamation District?

2:51 How is wastewater treated at Stickney?

5:09 Interesting objects that have been found in the wastewater

6:06 (continued) How is wastewater treated at Stickney?

20:38 What is sludge, and how is it dealt with?

23:20 Toxins inside the sludge

30:25 Interesting jobs people have at the Stickney

30:50 Microbiologist called in to save dead bacteria?!

32:09 (continued) Interesting jobs at the Stickney

33:45 Interesting buildings/parts of Stickney

35:53 Effects of climate change on Stickney

43:17 Cool research at the Stickney laboratories

45:03 Using sludge to cool and heat buildings??

46:53 Closing Remarks

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https://mwrd.org/https://www.instagram.com/mwrd_of_greater_chicago/?hl=en

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Every 90 seconds, a child dies from a water-related disease — yet many of us barely think twice about the water we drink, cook with, and flush away. In this opening episode of H2O and Beyond, we explore the global water crisis happening in plain sight.

From contaminated tap water in Flint Michigan to the growing threat of PFAS and microplastics, this episode breaks down why clean water is far from guaranteed — even in wealthy nations. Learn what "clean" water really means, why many treatment systems are falling short, and how climate change, aging infrastructure, and underinvestment are pushing systems to the brink.

Plus, we spotlight global innovation bringing hope — from Paris’ stormwater basins to green infrastructure in U.S. cities.

Whether you’re new to water issues or just thirsty for solutions, this episode will change how you see the water running through your life.

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