Living Water Award 2026 Nominee

Shawn Bunting

Senior Vice President, Chief Legal Officer and Business Development, California Water Service Group

Shawn, Senior Vice President, Chief Legal Officer and Business Development with California Water Service Group, is nominated for his exceptional leadership and strategic vision in addressing the national challenge of PFAS contamination. Going far beyond traditional legal responsibilities, Shawn spearheaded efforts to hold PFAS manufacturers financially accountable, securing nearly $79 million in gross recoveries for California Water Service Group and helping recover more than $14 billion in settlement funds across the water utility industry. These recoveries directly offset testing and treatment costs, protecting customers from severe financial burdens. Recognized as a key national voice on PFAS-related issues, Shawn has collaborated closely with the NAWC and industry peers to balance public health protection, environmental stewardship and customer affordability.