Yes it rained but unfortunately we are still in a drought. Precipitation levels are still about 10 inches lower than in a normal year. It is vital that we continue water conservation practices. Here are some everyday habits you can add to your day:
Water reclaiming tips
- Place a bucket in the shower or tub to catch running water as you wait for it to heat up
- Drain pasta water into a large pot and save
- Save old drinking water, produce rinse water in a container to reuse
- Use reclaimed water to water plants, soak dishes
Wash dishes more efficiently
- Reduce the amount of dishes you use: use a water bottle instead of cups, reuse salad bowl for your main dish, look for one-pan recipes
- Always scrape food off first (do not use water to get it off)
- Turn water off when scrubbing dishes, turn it back on to rinse
- Make sure your dishwasher is full before running. Dishwashers are often more efficient than washing by hand
- Don’t use your disposal, compost food scraps
Hygiene
- Take short showers – challenge yourself to take a 4 minute shower!
- When showering, shut the water off while you soap up
- Plug the bathtub before turning on the water for a bath, adjust temperature as it is filling
- Turn the water off while you lather your hands, brush your teeth, and shave. Turn it back on to rinse
Buying habits
- Buy locally grown food: local farmers employ water efficient techniques compared to conventional farms
- Buy less stuff: although this may not impact our local water supply directly, it takes water to produce EVERYTHING. Manufacturing every consumable item from clothes to plastic do-dads to electronics consumes water. Make sure you really need it before you decide to buy something new
- Reduce energy use: water is even used to generate electricity and fuels. Using less energy and driving less saves water
- When upgrading fixtures, make sure to purchase WaterSense products that use less water (think toilets, washing machines, dishwashers, showerheads, faucets)Â
0 Comments