Today is World Water Day, an awareness campaign every year that focuses on the importance of water and why and how to conserve it.
Damaged ecosystems affect the quantity and quality of water available for human consumption. Today, 2.1 billion people live without safe drinking water at home; affecting their health, education and livelihoods. Sustainable Development Goal 6 commits the world to ensure that everyone has access to safe water by 2030, and includes targets for protecting the natural environment and reducing pollution. [World Water Day]
What can you do to help? A lot! In fact, water conservation starts right in your own home, here is how to get started:
Kitchen
- Install low-flow faucets, which can save you up to 3.5 gallons of water a minute
- Wash fruits and vegetables in your sink, rather than running water
- Install an energy-efficient dishwasher
- Avoid pre-rinsing dishes, and ensure your dishwasher is completely full before running it
- Keep a jug of water in the fridge, rather than running the tap until it’s cold
Laundry
- Use front-loading washing machines, which are energy-efficient and use less water
- Ensure your laundry loads are large enough before running the washing machine
Outdoors
- Avoid running your sprinkler to water your lawn
- Use a rain barrel to catch rainwater for watering plants/flowers
- Avoid running your hose for extended periods of time: washing your car, washing your siding, etc.
Bathroom:
Did you know that more water is used in your bathroom than all the other rooms in your house? That’s why these tips are so important!
- Use water-efficient shower heads
- Install water-efficient faucets
- Check your toilet for leaks
- Install a low-flow toilet
- Use a garbage to dispose of tissues, etc. instead of flushing things down the toilet.
The City of Calgary has meticulous water conservation processes and plans in place at the municipal level:
We have a number of plans, programs and tools in place to help reduce water demand. Our 30 year Water Efficiency Plan, aims to maintain river water withdrawals at 2003 levels, even with population growth. We are on track to meet this. We engage with citizens and businesses about a number of programs aimed at using water wisely. [City of Calgary]
Practicing water conservation at home isn’t just great for the environment, it’s also great for your wallet. By taking simple measures to save water around your home, you will also be saving yourself money on your utility bills. Learn more about water conservation, search #WorldWaterDay on social media.
