A Case Study of a Large Wastewater Treatment Plant Demonstrating an Integrated Approach to Climate Change

Before climate change was a hot topic, the East Bay Municipal Utility District (EBMUD) was already working to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from its Main Wastewater Treatment Plant (MWWTP) by generating renewable energy and producing recycled water. Over the past decade, EBMUD has implemented additional efforts through innovative projects to further reduce its contribution to GHG emissions. These projects include diverting organic wastes from landfills, producing biodiesel from brown grease and ensuring beneficial reuse of all biosolids produced. EBMUD's comprehensive approach to climate change includes these mitigation strategies, as well as monitoring, impact and vulnerability assessments, and adaptation planning. EBMUD is also actively engaged with policy makers and regulators in climate change discussions as they pertain to wastewater treatment plant operations.