Get Prepared For World Water Day- March 22
Water is the cornerstone of life; we need it to sustain our lives and our economies. Despite the fact that the majority of the earth’s surface is covered with water, only a tiny portion of it is accessible and usable. Water is a limited resource facing pressure because global demand continues to climb. Climate change is partly to blame, but frequent waste of water is a problem as well.
To bring awareness to the water crisis, the United Nations marks “World Water Day” on March 22 every year. It is a day of reflection and observation- but of action as well. If people join together to reduce their water footprints, these actions will help a great deal.
Water Crisis Fast Facts
Did you know that 783 million people and counting in the world don’t have access to clean water? Did you know that 2.4 billion people don’t have proper sanitation facilities? This opens the door for deadly water-borne illnesses.
As the world’s population grows so will the need for water. It is expected that by 2035, the world’s energy consumption will grow by 35 percent, and its water need in turn by 15 percent, according to the International Energy Agency. That’s why we need to come up with ways to make more use out of the resources that we do have. The theme this year for World Water Day is “Wastewater” which helps address how to properly treat wastewater to be a renewable resource.
The Plumbing Factor
Plumbing leaks account for substantial water waste; the Environmental Protection Agency estimates that 10 percent of American homes have leaks that waste 90 gallons of water a day. In order to reduce your water footprint, you’ve got to become leak free.
Inspect your home and fix leaky fixtures, faucets and showerheads.
Attend to toilet flappers, which will deteriorate over time and cause toilet leaks. For extra water conservation, invest in low-flow showerheads, which are an effective way to reduce your water use and your water bills.
Other Water Conservation Methods
Water conservation is about being mindful and making constant choices to use less water.
Think about setting up a rain barrel under a gutter. You can catch lots of water to use to water your garden or wash your car. If you have a pool, cover it to keep water from evaporating. Check the liner and foundation for leaks regularly. Don’t water your lawn when it is windy or in the middle of the day; most of the water will evaporate.
In your kitchen, don’t run the dishwasher unless it is full and don’t pre-rinse dishes under the tap. Don’t run the garbage disposal. You can compost food waste instead. Steam food instead of boiling. Spot clean messes instead of mopping the floor.
Take a shower instead of a bath. Don’t flush the toilet unless you have too. Turn the tap off while washing hands, brushing teeth or shaving.
Do you have low flow shower heads or toilets? They can help you reduce your water footprint. In Atlanta, GA, call Plumb Works Inc at (404)-524-1825.
