This report published by Pacific Institute in 2006 explores the benefits and substantial costs of desalination. The report uses examples from California to make the case that in many cases, desalination is not a practical solution to meeting our growing water needs. The report concludes that while in some cases desalination might makes sense, water conservation and efficiency can often meet growing water demands in a more cost-effective and environmentally friendly way than developing new desalination sources. For the full report, click here or on the image below.