As the world's climate patterns continue to shift unpredictably, places where drinking water was once abundant may soon find reservoirs dry and groundwater aquifers depleted. In this talk, civil and environmental engineer David Sedlak shares four practical solutions to the ongoing urban water crisis. His goal: to shift our water supply towards new, local sources of water and create a system that is capable of withstanding any of the challenges climate change may throw at us in the coming years.

David Sedlak: 4 ways we can avoid a catastrophic drought

4 ways we can avoid a catastrophic drought

Capturing half of stormwater in cities like San Jose could meet annual water needs, showcasing urban rainwater's untapped potential.

Advanced wastewater treatment now produces drinkable water, challenging perceptions with scientifically proven safety over 15 years.

Conserving outdoor water use by 50% through smart landscaping can significantly augment urban water supplies without aesthetic loss.

Water 4.0: The Past, Present, and Future of the World's Most Vital Resource

climate change

environment

global issues

sustainability

design

engineering

industrial design

urban planning

innovation

future

water

public health

chemistry

TEDx

infrastructure

TEDx Talk