California officials voted to permit the purification of wastewater from showers and toilets into drinking water, making it the second state in the US, after Colorado, to adopt such regulations. This move aims to address drought-induced water shortages and bolster water supplies. Cities like San Diego, Los Angeles, and Santa Clara are already preparing to build water purification systems to provide drinking water to households. While initially facing public opposition due to concerns about water safety, advances in water purification technology and climate change-induced water scarcity have softened resistance. The newly permitted system allows recycled wastewater to meet drinking water standards rapidly, with plans for direct potable use to be submitted for state approval. This decision marks a significant step in California’s efforts toward climate resilience and sustainable water management, with projects in Southern California expected to be among the world’s largest water recycling efforts upon completion.

https://www.nytimes.com/2023/12/19/us/california-wastewater-drinking-water.html