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Sustainable Development

Phoenix is a leader in sustainable development through innovative water management and urban heat reduction. The city's long-term planning provides reliable water access and efficient use, enabling steady business growth. Phoenix balances economic progress and environmental stewardship, attracting companies with its tech investments and sustainability.

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Sustainable Development

Why Phoenix

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Phoenix is Resilient

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Phoenix is Resilient

<div class="ExternalClass6C8127CEB0C34DEA8CB52132B3229320"><p>Phoenix, often perceived as a city battling extreme heat and water scarcity, has in fact been a pioneer in sustainable desert living for decades. Our city's forward-thinking strategies and investments in infrastructure have not only allowed us to thrive in these conditions but also offer a promising future for businesses looking to expand here.<br></p></div>

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Why Phoenix?

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Why Phoenix?

<div class="ExternalClass0D216523FEBB4461AE5970A82C108ADE"><div><h1>Strategic Planning, Sustainable Growth<br></h1><div><br><p>Phoenix's multifaceted approach to water management, combined with its strategies to combat heat, makes it an attractive destination for businesses. Our city's commitment to sustainability ensures that businesses have the resources they need to thrive, both now and in the future.</p><p>Phoenix's commitment to long-term planning, collaboration, and sustainable growth positions it as a leader in both economic development and environmental stewardship. As the city continues to attract technological investments, it remains steadfast in its commitment to ensuring a sustainable future for all its residents.</p><p>Phoenix's approach to economic development is rooted in a balance between growth and sustainability. The city recognizes the importance of technological advancements and the economic opportunities they bring. However, Phoenix remains committed to ensuring that this growth does not come at the expense of our most precious resource: water.</p><p>Phoenix boasts a climate that, while hot and dry, offers predictability that many other regions can't match. The city rarely experiences flooding, and natural disasters such as blizzards, hurricanes, and destructive earthquakes are virtually unheard of. This stability in weather patterns not only provides a comfortable living environment for its residents but also offers businesses a level of assurance against unpredictable and costly weather-related disruptions. The absence of these natural disasters makes Phoenix an attractive location for both individuals and corporations looking for a stable environment for which to live and operate.<br></p><p></p><div><table class="ms-formtable" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%" style="margin-top:8px;"><tbody><tr><td valign="top" class="ms-formbody" width="350px"><div><div><div class="ExternalClassA836E35F8F5E4A58A5F2459943DF368C"><p>Phoenix's remarkable commitment to sustainable water management is reflected in its historical water usage data. Despite the city's significant population growth of approximately 400,000 people since 1990, Phoenix currently uses less water than it did over three decades ago. This accomplishment highlights the effectiveness of the city's water conservation strategies and the collective efforts of its residents and businesses towards ensuring a sustainable future.<br></p><div><br></div><h2><br class="Apple-interchange-newline">Water Management: A Legacy of Sustainability</h2><div><ul><li><p><strong>100-Year Assured Water Supply:</strong> Phoenix has secured a 100-year assured water supply, demonstrating our commitment to long-term sustainability and growth. This ensures that businesses and residents have a reliable water source for the foreseeable future.<br></p></li><li><p><strong>Historical Water Management:</strong> For decades, Phoenix has been at the forefront of water conservation, implementing policies and practices that have become models for arid regions worldwide.<br></p></li><li><p><strong>Collaboration with Neighboring Cities:</strong> Phoenix collaborates with neighboring cities to ensure water sustainability. Through shared infrastructure and agreements, water is moved and used efficiently across the region.<br></p></li><li><p><strong>Water Recycling:</strong> Our advanced water recycling systems ensure that every drop is used efficiently. Treated wastewater is repurposed for non-potable uses such as irrigation, industrial processes, and replenishing groundwater.<br></p></li></ul></div></div></div></div></td></tr></tbody></table> <br></div></div></div></div>

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A Diverse and Robust Water Portfolio

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A Diverse and Robust Water Portfolio

<div class="ExternalClass6F72AB72E32E4E76A79C181EA471B2D5"><p>Phoenix is not solely reliant on the Colorado River for its water needs. Our city boasts a diverse water portfolio that includes groundwater reserves, surface water, Drought Pipeline Project, and Arizona Water Banking Authority.<br></p></div>

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Papago Park in Phoenix

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Papago Park in Phoenix

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Roosevelt Dam east of Phoenix

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Roosevelt Dam east of Phoenix

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Colorado River

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Colorado River

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Tres Rios Wetlands in Phoenix

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Tres Rios Wetlands in Phoenix

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A Diverse and Robust Water Portfolio

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A Diverse and Robust Water Portfolio

<div class="ExternalClass135A6CE65BA1476FB83ED6B6FA722B2F"><div><h2>Forward-Thinking Water Management in Phoenix<br></h2><p>Phoenix is not only addressing its current water challenges but also proactively planning for the future. By embracing innovative technologies and considering infrastructural expansions, the city is ensuring a sustainable water supply for its residents and industries.<br></p><div><ul><li><p><strong>Direct Potable Reuse & Advanced Purified Water:</strong> Phoenix is investing in Direct Potable Reuse (DPR) technologies, allowing treated wastewater to be purified to drinking water standards. Advanced purification processes, including reverse osmosis and advanced oxidation, ensure that this water is of the highest quality, setting a benchmark for urban water management.</p></li><li><p><strong>Potential Expansion of Bartlett Dam:</strong> Plans are being considered to expand Bartlett Dam. By increasing the dam's capacity, the city aims to harness more water from the Verde River. This not only provides an additional water source but also aids in diversifying the city's water portfolio, ensuring resilience against potential future shortages.</p></li><li><p><strong>Prioritizing Conservation and Water Efficiency:</strong> Recognizing the importance of sustainable water use, Phoenix has implemented a comprehensive water conservation strategy. The city promotes water-saving practices among its residents and businesses, offering educational programs, incentives, and tools to reduce water consumption. Additionally, Phoenix is investing in infrastructure that minimizes water loss, such as efficient irrigation systems and leak detection technologies. By fostering a culture of conservation and maximizing water efficiency, Phoenix ensures its water resources are used judiciously, paving the way for a sustainable future.<br></p></li></ul></div><div><br></div><h2>Phoenix's Pioneering Approach to Heat Management</h2><p>Phoenix recognizes the increasing challenges posed by urban heat and has taken groundbreaking steps to address them:</p><div><ul><li><p><strong>Office of Heat Response & Mitigation: </strong>Phoenix proudly announced the establishment of the Office of Heat Response & Mitigation, a first of its kind initiative led by ASU Associate Professor David Hondula. This office is implementing a strategic action plan to tackle the growing menace of urban heat, ensuring the city's economic vitality and safeguarding the health of its vulnerable residents.</p></li><ul><li><p><strong>Leadership:</strong> Dr. Hondula, with over a decade of experience as a climate and health scientist, has been instrumental in understanding the risks associated with heat. His leadership roles include the Arizona Heat Resilience Working Group, the annual Arizona Extreme Heat Planning Workshop, and the CDC Climate-Ready Cities and States Initiative.</p></li><li><p><strong>Vision:</strong> Under Dr. Hondula's guidance, the office aims to collaborate across departments and with external partners to envision and realize a cooler, more sustainable Phoenix.<br></p></li></ul><li><p><strong>AZ Heat Resilience Workgroup:</strong></p></li><ul><li><p><strong>Collaborative Approach:</strong> The AZ Heat Resilience Workgroup was established in 2020 to bring together stakeholder organizations from across Arizona. Their mission is to monitor heat forecasts, share best practices related to heat response, and foster collaboration and innovation in heat preparedness and resilience.<br><br></p></li></ul></ul></div><h2>Combating Heat: Making Phoenix Cooler and More Sustainable</h2><div><ul><li><p><strong>Cool Pavement: </strong>Phoenix is experimenting with cool pavement technology to reduce the heat island effect. By reflecting more sunlight and absorbing less heat, these pavements can reduce local temperatures, making our city more comfortable and reducing cooling costs.</p></li><li><p>Tree Planting Initiatives: Our urban forestry initiatives aim to increase the city's tree canopy by planting desert-adapted or native trees that require less water. Trees not only provide shade but also help in reducing the ambient temperature, improving air quality, and enhancing the city's aesthetics.</p></li><li><p><strong>Reliable Power Supply: </strong>Phoenix understands the importance of a consistent power supply, especially during the hotter months. Our investments in grid infrastructure and renewable energy sources ensure that businesses operate without interruptions.</p></li><li><p><strong>Building Design and Urban Planning: </strong>Phoenix promotes the design of buildings and public spaces that are heat resilient. This includes the use of reflective materials, green roofs, and strategic shading.<br></p></li></ul></div></div></div>

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Phoenix is Heat Ready

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Phoenix is Heat Ready

<div class="ExternalClass6281283882964079BA86CDE40AA9C787"><p></p><div><div><div class="contents" style="box-sizing:border-box;border:0px solid #e5e7eb;display:contents;"><p>Phoenix's Office of Heat Response and Mitigation (OHRM) proactively coordinates policies and programs year-round to protect public health. Their innovative efforts like cool pavement and shade trees aim to provide relief across the city. Discover how OHRM is working hard to equip communities to thrive in Phoenix.</p><br></div></div></div></div>

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Phoenix City Council's Historic Decision on Sustainable Development Water Policies

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Phoenix City Council's Historic Decision on Sustainable Development Water Policies

<div class="ExternalClassA0DCF889F12D4FC6885379B0907D1BC6"><h2>Phoenix City Council's Historic Decision on Sustainable Development Water Policies</h2><p><br>Recently, the Phoenix City Council made a unanimous decision to approve the “Sustainable Desert Development Policy,” a testament to the city's commitment to responsible growth amidst the West’s ongoing drought. This policy, championed by Mayor Kate Gallego and is a culmination of years of dedicated work.<br></p><div><br></div><h3>Key Highlights of the New Policy:</h3><div><ul><li><p><strong>Rezoning Stipulations:</strong> The newly approved conservation guidelines introduce rezoning stipulations that encompass:</p></li><ul><li><p>Regulations on non-functional turf.</p></li><li><p>Mandate to meet EPA WaterSense or equivalent certification.</p></li><li><p>Planting of drought-resistant and native plants.</p></li><li><p>Outdoor irrigation standards.</p></li><li><p>Enhanced standards for swimming pools.<br></p></li></ul><li><p><strong>Collaborative Implementation:</strong> The City’s Planning and Development Department will work closely with applicants to ensure their effective implementation.<br></p></li><li><p><strong>Inspiration from Verdin Development:</strong> The stipulations were inspired by the city’s collaboration with the Verdin development. This residential neighborhood in North Phoenix has set a benchmark by conserving 55 million gallons of water annually compared to a standard subdivision. Their preservation of natural desert landscaping further saves nearly 80 million gallons of water each year.<br></p></li></ul><div><br></div></div><div><br></div><h3>In the News:<br></h3><p></p><ul style="list-style-type:disc;"><li style="text-align:left;"><strong>AZCENTRAL:</strong> <a href="/Documents/Arizona%20is%20not%20out%20of%20water,%20despite%20what%20you%20might%20read.pdf">Arizona is not out of water, despite all those headlines you might read</a></li><li><strong>The New York Times (podcast):</strong> <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/2023/07/20/podcasts/the-daily/the-man-trying-to-save-phoenix-from-historic-heat.html">The Man Trying to Save Phoenix From Historic Heat</a></li><li><strong>Foreign Policy:</strong> <a href="/Documents/Arizona%20Is%20Not%20Running%20Out%20of%20Water%20or%20Workers.pdf">Arizona Is Not Running Out of Water or Workers</a></li><li><strong>Wall Street Journal: </strong><a href="https://webreprints.djreprints.com/2434254.pdf">Phoenix Is in No Danger of Running Out of Water</a><br></li></ul></div>

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Water and Development

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Water and Development

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