L.A. Bureau of Sanitation at the Forefront of Water Sustainability

Enrique Zaldivar, Director of the Los Angeles City Bureau of Sanitation, had a conversation this month with The Planning Report on the status of the Bureau's efforts to improve the quality of life and water across the City of Los Angeles. Leading a staff of 2800, Zaldivar's Bureau has managed to significantly reduce the number of spills occuring each year in L.A. and is taking bold steps in updating the hidden infrastructure for the 21st century.

A sanitation department plays one of the most important roles in maintaining a functioning and healthy city. As Americans deal with less reliable water sources, the L.A. Bureau of Sanitation demonstrates where efficiencies can be found and where the potential for reuse lies. Sanitation's part in cleaning up Los Angeles' notorious Skid Row also demonstrates the immediate and dramatic impact local government may have on the urban environment.

Thanks to Kevin Madden