Sunday, March 21, 2010

Precious Water Down the Drain


The April 2010 issue of National Geographic is all about water. Please pick up a copy of this very important issue & become informed about the true situation of the world's fresh water supply. It includes an article written by Barbara Kingsolver (Animal, Vegetable, Miracle).


We are blessed to not have to worry about water constantly. Our neighbors with wells need to be more cautious than us city folk. Our ancestors with crude wells & no indoor plumbing had to even more attuned to how much water they used. How about the women in Africa that walk up to 8 hours a day to collect polluted, murky water. That's the only water they have access to. Shouldn't we feel ashamed as we watch gallons pour down the drain as we brush our teeth?

In the next 20 years, drinking water shortages around the world are expected, including in the US. Use conservation practices now to help solve this alarming issue.

We waste more clean water per day than a person in Africa will have access to for drinking & cooking. Watch next time you brush your teeth, see how much clean water pours straight down the drain. Apply mindfulness every time you use water from now on...

-Try shutting the water off when not in direct use. (while lathering hands, dishes & body)

-When you do turn it on, try not to use such a forceful stream. Try using as little as you can.

-Be mindful when setting the level in your washer.

-Also consider flushing a little less & putting a brick in the tank of your toilet to save water with every flush.

-Buy a low flow shower head. Mine is a Waterpik brand head with great water pressure, which has a toggle button that cuts the water down to a tiny stream, just enough to keep you warm, while you shave, shampoo & soap up. The water stays mixed perfectly. It only cost around $20, and it has a cousin that has the hose attached for those that prefer that style. It uses an average of 1.5 to 2.5 gallons per minute. Tops.

-Use a head on your garden hose that can help reduce wasted water. Don't water your lawn/garden when rain is predicted.

-Grey water is non-potable water used for non-potable needs- use a dishpan to clean your dishes, and use that grey water to water your plants (use biodegradable soap or else you'll kill your plants and poison waterways). Capture some rainwater to wash your hair, water your garden, and flush your toilet. Non-heated water from your shower can also be poured into the tank of the toilet. Rainwater or shower water can be used to clean the car as well.

No comments:

Post a Comment