Arizona Poised to Greenlight Cutting-Edge Water Purification Technology

Arizona is on the verge of implementing a system that allows cities and utilities to turn treated sewage into drinking water, a topic that has generated considerable debate over the years.

The Arizona Department of Environmental Quality (ADEQ) recently published draft rules for what it terms “advanced water purification.” Deputy director Randall Matas indicated that final approval could be secured by year-end, potentially enabling water suppliers to erect the necessary facilities.

Matas asserts the technology ensures water produced will be of higher purity than existing supplies from groundwater or surface sources, achieving removal of a wide range of contaminants, including those not regulated by the Safe Drinking Water Act.

However, public perception poses a significant challenge. Many residents are wary, grappling with the notion of “toilet to tap,” which suggests an unappealing association with the recycled water.

Terms such as “direct potable reuse” were initially used, but Matas explained that rebranding to “advanced water purification” aims to reflect the complex treatment process more accurately while making the concept more palatable for consumers.

ADEQ conducted statewide studies, revealing that while 77% of respondents expressed no opposition to the technology, acceptance of drinking the water itself varied significantly. Approximately one-third indicated they would be likely to consume it, while 42% were somewhat likely, and 10% remained firm in their reluctance.

Among those against it, nearly 40% cited safety concerns. Matas highlighted that the standards being adopted could eliminate 99.9999999999% of pathogens, including viruses and antibiotic-resistant bacteria.

To address skepticism, Phoenix’s water services director, Troy Hayes, noted that educational initiatives are crucial. The city plans to upgrade its Cave Creek treatment facility, offering tours to show the purification process and the superior quality of the treated water.

In Scottsdale, a similar initiative showcases the technology’s capabilities through partnerships with local breweries to create beer from treated sewage, emphasizing that recycled water is already a reality for consumers.

Understanding that all water has existed in some form for millions of years, Hayes pointed out that the new process merely substitutes natural filtration with advanced technology.

Yet, tangible opposition persists, with the “yuck factor” cited as a major barrier. Additionally, concerns regarding the potential costs associated with implementing advanced purification technologies remain unresolved.

Matas explained that costs will vary based on specific utilities and their scale of operations. The ADEQ has outlined requirements without dictating the exact infrastructure utilities must establish, leaving room for innovation.

While some residents are anxious about the financial implications, Hayes noted the urgency, given the over-allocation of Colorado River water, which jeopardizes the supply of drinking water to urban areas.

Comparatively, advanced water purification might prove more economically viable than the previously discussed desalination proposal from the Sea of Cortez, which carries an estimated cost exceeding $3 billion in construction.

Matas concluded that despite potential price increases, the alternative of water scarcity could render any cost justifiable in the face of ongoing challenges related to water availability.