For the first time since its inception in 1999, the
U.S. Drought Monitor reported that the entirety of the state of California is experiencing a drought. The state government has initiated a public relations campaign to increase the public's conservation efforts, while funding is being directed to the most affected communities. Additional firefighters have been hired in light of the heightened threat of wildfires, and the state, working with local governments, is exploring ways to improve the water storage and treatment infrastructure to maximize water conservation.
In light of the water crisis facing California, a grassroots employee group at PG&E launched a Water Wise Pledge Campaign in which the utility's employees are encouraged to make a commitment to conserve water both at home and in the workplace as well as to specify the specific steps they will take to reduce their water use. While the pledge campaign and its kickoff event were organized by the Grassroots Green Network (GGN), top management affirmed their support of the group's efforts.
