Underground pipelines and treatment technologies may form the backbone of water reuse, but public understanding can play a key factor in whether projects succeed or stall. As Carollo’s Communications Director Diana Leonard explained in a recent interview with Water Online, clear and creative outreach is critical to building trust in recycled water.
Turning Complex Engineering into Everyday Language
Carollo’s new resource, The ABCs of Water Reuse, was designed to help utilities bridge the gap between technical processes and community understanding. Presented in an A-to-Z format, the book explains 26 water reuse concepts—from aquifers to zero wasted water—using plain language, bold illustrations, and relatable metaphors.
“It’s an educational resource designed to help utilities speak more effectively with the public about water recycling and water reuse,” Diana shared. “It breaks down engineering concepts into everyday language that is understood by non-technical people.”
The ABCS of Water Reuse: A Tool for Utilities, Leaders, and Educators
The idea began with a client event in Southern California, where Carollo was asked to develop a public-facing handout. The concept resonated so strongly that it was quickly expanded into a resource for utilities nationwide.
Diana emphasized that the book is intended not just for utility staff, but also for the broader set of voices who help shape public opinion. “Often the messengers are public officials, city leaders, even the media,” she explained. “We wanted to help them understand the value and benefits of recycled water so they can advocate effectively.”
By making highly technical topics more approachable, the book also helps dispel common misconceptions about safety and reliability, which have historically been barriers to the adoption of reuse projects.
Collaboration Behind the Pages: Water Experts Coming Together
The ABCs of Water Reuse was created entirely in-house at Carollo, drawing on subject matter experts, communications professionals, and designers. Engineers provided the technical foundation, while communicators helped translate detailed descriptions into concise explanations that resonate with the public.
“You can imagine trying to break down membranes in a way the general public would understand,” Diana recalled with a laugh. “I remember receiving a two-page single-spaced document and thinking, ‘okay, how do I translate this?’” That translation effort, paired with striking pop-art style graphics, created a resource designed to be both accurate and engaging.
Accessible and Industry-Focused Water Industry Tool
The book is freely available as a digital download and print copies can be purchased on Amazon at cost. “No profit is going to Carollo,” Diana clarified. “The book is designed to be an industry resource for utilities of any size. We just want to help push water reuse forward.”
Diana’s full conversation with Water Online explores the origins, design, and goals of The ABCs of Water Reuse in more detail. Watch the video below:
