Sustainability

Envision framework ratings and environmental goals

The project was designed using the Envision sustainable infrastructure framework and is on track to achieve an Envision Gold rating, reflecting strong performance in environmental protection, climate resilience, and resource efficiency.

What Is Envision?

The Envision Sustainability Rating System, developed by the Institute for Sustainable Infrastructure (ISI), evaluates civil infrastructure projects across 64 credits in five categories. It is the leading framework for assessing sustainability in infrastructure design and construction.

Envision Verified award Verified 20%
Envision Silver award Silver 30%
Envision Gold award Gold 40%
Envision Platinum award Platinum 50%

Project Scoring

The project's self-assessment across all five Envision categories places it at the Gold threshold.

Category Applicable Points Submitted Percentage
Quality of Life 200 59
30%
Leadership 182 60
33%
Resource Allocation 196 79
40%
Natural World 232 104
45%
Climate & Resilience 190 100
53%
Total 1000 402
40%

Expected Ratings by Phase

Phase 1

Envision Silver

Core infrastructure: RO facility, first well, tanks, and pipelines. Meets the 30% threshold.

Phase 2

Envision Gold

Adds renewable energy, Education Center, second well, and enhanced ecological elements. Reaches 40%.

How Each Category Applies

Quality of Life icon

Quality of Life

59/200 (30%)
  • Removes contaminants that threaten public health
  • Education Center promotes community learning about water treatment
  • Improves trust in local water infrastructure
Leadership icon

Leadership

60/182 (33%)
  • Collaboration between RCSD, regulators, and Cal Poly Pomona
  • Transparent communication about water quality issues
  • Interdisciplinary teamwork and coordinated planning
Resource Allocation icon

Resource Allocation

79/196 (40%)
  • 87% water recovery rate from the RO system
  • Optimized membrane life and minimized chemical usage
  • Efficient energy use with VFD-controlled pumps
  • Responsible brine disposal through the regional SAWPA Brine Line
Natural World icon

Natural World

104/232 (45%)
  • Minimized habitat disturbance on previously disturbed site
  • Native, drought-tolerant landscaping and rain garden
  • Stormwater quality improvements and groundwater protection
Climate & Resilience icon

Climate & Resilience

100/190 (53%)
  • Long-term water supply stability reducing imported water reliance
  • Accommodates population growth through 2049
  • Backup power systems and seismic design
  • Renewable energy integration