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The article looks at the efforts of building teams in conserving water inside buildings in the U.S. According to U.S. Green Building Council estimates, buildings account for 14 percent of domestic water consumption in the country. The city of Los Angeles California has mandated high-efficiency fixtures in all new buildings and major renovations to reduce water consumption. Building teams are also considering the use of graywater to flush toilets and urinals.

The article focuses on the legalization of the graywater use for landscape irrigation with the addition of the California Plumbing Code known as Appendix J on November 9, 1994 in California. According to the author, compensating for an undersized septic tank by pulling the graywater out of the waste stream is the aim of the graywater system. He added that one of the reason for the use of the graywater has been the desperate attempt to save plants when a drought necessitates water rationing.

The article discusses viability of establishing 17 proposed desalination plants in California. It has been stated that energy use accounts for more than half the cost of desalinating water and energy prices are expected to increase in future, which makes desalination programs financially risky and ultimately unpredictable. It has been stated that so water conservation, greywater purification and rain harvesting are considered as potential solutions of water crisis in California.

The article offers the author's view on graywater capture and reuse in California. He mentions that most building officials discourage contractors to apply alternative water resources. He also notes his concern over the absence of regulations in the alternative application of graywater systems which could lead to health risks.

The article focuses on the methods used by San Diego, California-based Monty's Plumbing owner K. C. Montgomery to educate customers on water conservation. According to Montgomery, he usually offers water-saving tips to clients, including using graywater-approved soap to allow the laundry machine and showers to drain into the yard to be used in watering trees and plants. He also states that plumbers can learn about graywater systems by reading books written by Art Ludwig.

The article profiles the "Ecohouse," an ecology efficient house using graywater system in Berkeley, California. The Ecohouse serves as a model for green living in urban areas, promoting environmental and energy efficiency measures. Several features of the house includes solar panels, a tankless water heater, and an organic garden. The house is using graywater, a recycled water from bath, dish and laundry water. Graywater system is practical means of water conservation, inferred to be an important step in addressing the call for conserving energy.

The article focuses on introduction of legislations related to water recycling and tree conservation for Los Angeles city, California by politician Paul Krekorian. Topics include the recycling of grey water for water conservation, planting of trees and increase in penalties for cutting of trees, and comments by Paul Krekorian.

The article focuses on the landmark water law that was approved by the California Building Standards Commission in California on July 31, 2009. It states that the law aims to improve the safety of graywater systems, offer green jobs for professionals, and enhance the environment. Moreover, the graywater standard marks the leadership role of the state in reusing graywater.