Convincing communities of the safety, quality, and ultimate adaptation of water reuse has been a decades-long challenge for utilities. With concepts that are technical and terminology that is often unfamiliar, it has been difficult to build the trust needed to advance critical water projects without advancing public understanding.
That’s why Carollo created The ABCs of Water Reuse, an educational resource designed to simplify and humanize the science behind reuse. As explained by Carollo’s Communications Director, Diana Leonard, in a recent H2O News Minute by waterloop, The ABCs of Water Reuse was developed to help bridge the communication gap between engineers and the communities they serve.
Making Water Reuse Easier to Understand
“The goal of this book is simple: to make the science accessible,” Diana says in the video. “We want to help utilities speak about these concepts clearly, and we want to provide elected officials and city leaders with the talking points they can use to speak confidently with their community members.”
Using an A-to-Z format, the book introduces 26 key reuse concepts through everyday metaphors and original illustrations, making it easier for utilities, city leaders, and the public to engage with concepts like one water, indirect potable reuse, and zero wasted water. One standout example is the letter “I” for indirect potable reuse, which is described as a scenic journey that purified water takes through nature before returning to the drinking water supply.
A Utility-Focused Tool for Community Outreach
Created by Carollo’s team of engineers, communication professionals, and illustrators, The ABCs of Water Reuse was designed to support the industry, not to promote the firm. Available as a free digital download or a low-cost print edition, the book provides an adaptable tool for outreach, education, and advocacy.
“This isn’t a marketing piece,” Diana notes. “You’re not going to see our logo all over the place. This truly is a resource designed for the industry, for use by utilities big and small.”
By empowering communities with knowledge, The ABCs of Water Reuse helps clear a path for more informed conversations and stronger support for water reuse solutions.
Watch the full video below: