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Climate and Environment

SoCal water use falls to new low partly due to more efficient appliances

A concrete channel receives water cascading down a mountain side.
The cascades where water from the Los Angeles Aqueduct makes its final descent into the city.
(
Sharon McNary
/
LAist
)

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Topline:

Daily, per person water use across Southern California has dropped by 45% since the 1980s, reaching a new low, according to a report issued by the Metropolitan Water District this week.

Significant savings: Water use has fallen from more than 200 gallons per person per day to 114 gallons. Some of the largest in home savings have come from the use of water efficient products, including toilets, shower heads and washing machines, according to MWD General Manager Deven Upadhyay.

Urban vs. agricultural use: Urban water use accounts for the majority of water use along the coast of Southern California, according to the Public Policy Institute. The 45% drop factors in water use by businesses, agriculture and homes.

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