Marine and Coastal Impacts of Ocean Desalination in California
This report synthesizes findings from an expert dialogue on the marine and coastal impacts of ocean desalination in California. It examines environmental risks, regulatory frameworks, and key issues related to seawater intake, brine disposal, facility siting, and community impacts, informing future research and policy development.
Subject Tags
- Climate resilience
- Coastal
- Climate impacts
Introduction
This report examines the marine and coastal impacts of ocean desalination in California, developed through an expert dialogue convened by the Stanford Woods Institute for the Environment, The Nature Conservancy, and the Monterey Bay Aquarium. As California faces increasing water supply challenges due to drought and climate change, desalination has gained attention as a potential water source. The report evaluates environmental, economic, and social considerations of desalination, highlighting potential risks to marine ecosystems, nearshore habitats, and coastal communities. It covers key topics including seawater intake, brine disposal, facility siting, and regulatory frameworks. The report also identifies knowledge gaps and research priorities to support informed decision making and policy development around desalination in California.
Citation
Szeptycki, L., Hartge, E., Ajami, N., Erickson, A., Heady, W. N., LaFeir, L., ... & Koseff, J. R. (2016). Marine and Coastal Impacts on Ocean Desalination in California. A Report of Water in the West; Center for Ocean Solutions, Monterey Bay Aquarium and The Nature Conservancy: Monterey, CA, USA.
TNC Authors
-
Walter N. Heady
Sr Coastal/Marine Scientist. California
The Nature Conservancy
Email: wheady@tnc.org -
Lily Verdone
The Nature Conservancy