MGM Resorts Launches Water Conservation Initiative in Las Vegas

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Innovative hybrid cooling towers installed at MGM Resorts to enhance water conservation efforts.

News Summary

MGM Resorts International has initiated a major water conservation project at the Bellagio in Las Vegas, collaborating with the Southern Nevada Water Authority. This hybrid cooling system aims to reduce water loss from existing evaporative cooling systems, potentially saving around 18 million gallons of water each year. As water scarcity becomes a pressing issue in the region, MGM Resorts is taking a leadership role in sustainability and innovative resource management, setting an example for other businesses on the Las Vegas Strip.

Las Vegas — MGM Resorts International has launched a significant water conservation initiative at the Bellagio in Las Vegas, coinciding with World Conservation Day. This ambitious project, which is in partnership with the Southern Nevada Water Authority, aims to address the pressing issue of water scarcity in the region by implementing innovative cooling technologies.

The pilot project is specifically designed to reduce water loss from evaporative cooling systems, the primary source of water consumption for MGM Resorts. The new hybrid cooling system is expected to save approximately 18 million gallons of water annually, a figure that equates to the yearly water usage of about 110 average single-family households in Las Vegas.

Since beginning operations in February, the hybrid cooling tower has joined several others that serve to cool the massive resort. This innovative hybrid system incorporates both evaporative and dry cooling technologies, allowing it to switch to dry methods in cooler months, significantly reducing water consumption during periods of lesser need.

Details of the Conservation Effort

Evaporative cooling represents the largest consumptive water use for MGM Resorts and stands as one of the major water consumers on the Las Vegas Strip. Given the ongoing challenges regarding water availability, casino executives have expressed the need to explore alternative cooling systems that utilize less water and can no longer be used in a manner that benefits the community.

According to projections, the hybrid cooling towers will offer considerable water conservation benefits, even though they may require more energy and space compared to traditional systems. This is crucial as water resources become increasingly scarce in the Colorado River Basin, which provides water to several states, including Nevada.

Resorts on the Las Vegas Strip are some of the highest consumers of water in Southern Nevada, and there has been increased pressure to adopt water reuse practices. Previously, the Southern Nevada Water Authority implemented a ban on new constructions that utilize evaporative cooling systems, reinforcing the need for greater water conservation measures.

Background Context

The Bellagio is world-renowned for its iconic fountains, which draw water from underground wells rather than from the Colorado River, highlighting the unique local water management issues. MGM Resorts has positioned itself as a leader in sustainable practices within the hotel and casino sector, making a significant private sector investment in water conservation amidst ongoing environmental challenges.

With these advancements, MGM Resorts hopes to set a precedent for other large commercial entities in the area, encouraging them to transition to hybrid cooling systems that can contribute to a more sustainable future. This initiative has garnered praise from officials at the Southern Nevada Water Authority, who regard the efforts at the Bellagio as essential in the long-term sustainability of water resources in the region.

This initiative marks an important step forward in addressing the water scarcity challenges facing Las Vegas and the broader region. As drought conditions continue to affect water availability in Western states, projects such as this highlight the need for innovative solutions to preserve essential resources.