Be Wiser with Water
When Earth’s surface is 70% water, it’s easy to think that water is abundant. However, this is not the case.
Did you know that less than 1% of the Earth’s water is available to 7.5 billion people? This is because the majority of the Earth’s water is saltwater, leaving freshwater making up only 3%. Most freshwater is unavailable for use because it is trapped in glaciers, stored in the atmosphere and soil, too deep in the earth to attain, or highly polluted.
This leaves very little water to share between so many people. Especially when the average American uses between 80-100 gallons of water each day.
With this in mind, it is important to reconsider how we use water every day. Even as individuals, it is possible to make a big difference by changing our habits. Every drop counts!
Turn off the Faucet
This is the simplest bad habit to break! There’s no need to have the water running when you brush your teeth. You also don’t need to faucet running when you rinse food and dishes. Soak them instead!
Check for Leaks
One drip every second adds up to 5 gallons a day! Check your faucets, shower heads, and toilet for any leaks.
Stick to One Cup
Designate one glass or bottle to drink water from each day. You will avoid have to wash excess glasses
Shorten Your Showers
By shortening your shower by a minute, you can have about 150 gallons of water a month. If you can get your shower time down to 5 minutes, you’ll save 1,000 gallons a month!
Opt for the Dishwasher Over Handwashing
Washing dishes by hand results in constant running water. Meanwhile, a dishwasher will use about half the amount of water for the same amount of dishes. Using a dishwasher is less work for you anyways!
Only Do Full Loads
When using the dishwasher or washing machine wait until they are full to run them. This will save your 20 gallons of water per wash! You’ll also waste less soap and detergent.
Repurpose Water
A lot of water is wasted every day when it could easily be used for a different purpose. While waiting for the hot water, collect the cold water and use it to water plants. Collect rainwater to use for the same purpose.
Water is finite, and it is important to conserve this valuable resource. Make it a goal to have as little water flow down the drain as possible. Conserving water takes commitment, but the result is well worth it. You will not only make a huge difference on your water bill, but for the environment as well!
– Megan