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The Sustainability & Industry Committee works to ensure the region’s energy and water supplies remain dependable and cost-effective.

On the energy-side, the committee advocates for investment in essential energy infrastructure and access to cost-effective renewable energy resources. With regard to water, the committee works with the San Diego County Water Authority, the City of San Diego Public Utilities Department, the Metropolitan Water District and other water agencies to improve the resiliency of the water system. Priorities of the committee are expanding the use of recycled water and seawater desalination.

The Sustainability & Industry Committee meets primarily virtually the first Thursday of each month from 8:00 to 9:00 a.m. If you’re interested in learning more about our policy committees or would like to join the Sustainability & Industry Committee, contact Lauren Cazares at lcazares@sdchamber.org.

Committee Chairs

Chair: Ed Othmer

Vice Chair: Bernadette Butkiewicz

Focus Statement:

The Chamber’s Sustainability & Industry Committee is focused on improving the reliability, safety, and cost-effectiveness of regional energy and water initiatives.

Policy Platform:

The Chamber’s Sustainability & Industry Committee is committed to legislation, regulations, and policies that:

  • Support cost-effective investment in infrastructure and technology to increase efficiency, conservation, and storage
  • Promote an affordable, safe, clean, reliable, sustainable, and diverse energy and water supply
    • Help businesses better manage costs
  • Achieve greater supply and water independence
    • Expands water reuse and recycling programs
    • Integrated water resources management
  • Recognize the region’s other investments in water supply and reliability to mitigate drought
  • Help achieve greenhouse gas reduction mandates at local and state levels
  • Promote green jobs in the San Diego region
  • Support public-private partnerships as worthwhile options
  • Encourage innovation in water-energy technology
  • Encourage water agencies to collaborate on water solutions such as waste water, water supply, recycled water, and stormwater as we move toward diversity of our supply sources and more local control and sources of drinking water

In addition, the committee is committed to:

  • Reviewing the cost impacts and responsible implementation of regional planning documents and regulations insofar as they pertain to the committee’s platform
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