Posted by SoBay Jim on March 13, 2005 at 13:33:11:
In Reply to: This stuff really annoys me posted by seahunt on March 12, 2005 at 05:58:36:
My understanding of the desalinization plants is that they will use the same inflow and discharge pipes as energy plants they will sit next to, but the discharged water will be 10 times more salty than the intake (standard reverse osmosis numbers). Neither the increased temp nor salinity are good for the immediate discharge area. So when I compare the ocean as a source of fresh water to the ever more threatened and impacted Colorado river, I find that there is no "best" answer.
I'm with the conservationists, we need to find a way to lessen our footprint. I accept the fact that no matter how softly we step, it always leaves an impression. Think solar, low flow fixtures, fuel efficient vehicles and xeriscape.
SoBay Jim.