3:00 - 4:15 p.m., Thursday, April 12, 2018
PSU Ballroom East
Water for all: Fresh isn't free
Everything from wildlife to computer chips and Big Macs require water. Adequate, clean, and fresh water is a foundational component for a sustainable future for any community, but while relatively very inexpensive compared to other day-to-day expenses, it is not free. There is a cost associated with sources, pipes, pumps and treatment systems, Most are in favor of good water sources and systems, but few are in favor of increasing utility bills to pay for it, even when the increase is pennies per day. Costs must be borne by the users and stakeholders, but sometimes costs and resulting rate increases have a greater impact in low-income communities. Who will accept responsibility for solving the social and environmental justice issues as demand for fresh water increases in almost every industry, city and nation when water remains a finite resource?
Presenters
John Bongiorno
President
WorldServe International
Nick Brown
Board director, Salt River Project
Salt River Project
Hannah Messerli
Eisenhower research professor of tourism policy
George Washington University School of Business
Scott VanderWal
Vice president
American Farm Bureau Federation