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Join the Global Call to Reimagine Residential Water Use
Be part of the Shaping the Future of Water Use at Home Architectural Design Challenge, a worldwide ideas competition empowering architects, engineers, designers, and students to create water-efficient homes that inspire change.
With $50,000 in cash prizes and international recognition at the California Green Building Conference, your design could shape the next generation of sustainable living.
In partnership with the World Business Council for Sustainable Development (WBCSD) and the World Economic Forum (WEF), USGBC California supports the 50L Home Coalition, a global initiative driving innovative water and energy solutions in water-stressed cities like Los Angeles.
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What is 50L Home?
The coalition—backed by leaders like Electrolux, IKEA, Kohler Co., and Procter & Gamble—aims to reduce daily water use per person to 50 liters (13 gallons). Through a pioneering pilot program in LA, they’ve proven it’s possible to slash domestic water and energy consumption while enhancing everyday life.
Key Pilot Results in Los Angeles:
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21% reduction in indoor water use vs. control homes
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18% reduction in energy use
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44% hot water savings from kitchen faucets
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55% hot water savings per laundry cycle
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23% overall hot water savings
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14% reduction in showers, 23% in high-efficiency toilets
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Average indoor water use: 87 liters (23 gallons) per person/day—50% less than the LA average
How It Works
The pilot retrofitted 31 homes with advanced water and energy monitoring, demonstrating that major savings are achievable without sacrificing comfort. Residents reported improved quality of life, with some even enjoying chores like laundry more due to the upgrades.
Looking Ahead
The 50L Home Coalition is expanding its efforts, with London as the next target city in 2025. This collaboration accelerates water-saving innovation worldwide, paving the way for a more sustainable, water-efficient future.
White Paper Release: The Cost of Water
The objective of the paper is to determine and measure the inherent energy and carbon expenditures associated with providing water, encompassing its transportation to Southern California, its distribution to consumers, and the effectiveness of alternative water sources.
Program Partners
Contact Us!
Reach out to Maureen Erbeznik, Senior Advisor, Water Innovation!
