A framework for a robust response to climate change was presented in the State Water Resources Control Board’s Comprehensive Response to Climate Change, Resolution No. 2017-0012, and further specified in the Los Angeles Regional Water Quality Control Board’s (Los Angeles Regional Board) Resolution No. R18-004. In response to Part I of the State Board’s Resolution to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, the Los Angeles Regional Board developed and began including language in permits and other orders to include provisions directing dischargers to prepare a Climate Change Effects Vulnerability Assessment and Mitigation Plan (Climate Change Plan). This Climate Change Plan must include an assessment of short and long-term facility vulnerabilities to climate change as well as plans to mitigate these vulnerabilities. Such language will continue to be incorporated in National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) permits, Clean Water Act section 401 Water Certifications, waste discharge requirements (WDRs), and waivers of WDRs issues by the Los Angeles Regional Board. To meet the Climate Change Plan requirements for NPDES permits, Rincon offers a myriad of tools and resources that can assist with putting your plan in action.

Who does this resolution apply to?

All publicly owned treatment works permits within the L.A. region

What does the resolution suggest? 

The development of a Climate Change Effects Vulnerability Assessment and Mitigation Plan. The Los Angeles Regional Board is incrementally requiring the development of Climate Change Plans for NPDES permittees.

Assess and manage climate change related effects that may impact wastewater treatment facilities:

• Operations
• Water supplies
• Collection systems
• Water quality

Assess any projected changes to:

• Influent water temperature
• Pollutant concentrations
• Beneficial uses

 If your NPDES permit requires a Climate Change Plan, how can Rincon help?

• Conduct a climate change vulnerability assessment using State and regional climate change projections
• Review the jurisdiction’s existing policies and data to establish consistency for Climate Change Plan development
• Develop climate change policies and planning document
• Work closely with the jurisdiction to facilitate collaboration and ensure a thorough understanding of current policies and plans
• Develop an implementation and monitoring process to put your plan in action