A Mini-Guide To How We Can Conserve Water In Our Daily Lives
Given 99% of water is unusable for humans
99percent of the world’s water is unusable by humans and other living things. However, we humans use an enormous amount of water. Cleaning, cooking, drinking, agriculture, food; they all require lots of water. This has a great impact on the environment. Also, water is expensive. But there are ways we can conserve water (and help save some money) in our everyday lives.
Cook & Clean Efficiently
Cooking and cleaning up after 3 meals can waste up to 56 gallons of water. To combat this, try to keep to faucet turned off. Clean fruits and vegetables with a bowl full of water, instead of letting the faucet run. Wash dishes with as little water as possible and clean with little to no water.
Reduce Garden Water Use
Watering lawns can waste up to 40 gallons of water when lawns only need about an inch of water. Every week, Americans use 270 billion gallons of water for their lawns. Make sure that the sprinklers are at their most efficient position, and try to use drought-tolerant plants.
Check For Leaks
Leaks in faucets, pipes, and toilets can waste incredible amounts of water, and you would have no idea. The average leak can waste up to 3,000 gallons of water a year, but a toilet leak can waste up to 22,000 gallons of water a year. Most professional plumbers agree to have leaks checked for at least every 2 years. However, an older or brand new home should get their plumbing checked more often.
Reduce Meat & Dairy Intake
A hamburger uses 616 gallons of water, and a beefsteak uses 1,232 gallons of water. Butter, milk, cheese, and other dairy products can also use around 50 gallons of water each. By reducing the amount of meat, especially beef, in your diet, you can drastically reduce the amount of water you use.
Use A Full Dishwasher
When washing dishes, try to avoid pre-rinsing them if possible. Also, fill up your dishwasher with as many dishes as possible to reduce the number of times you have to use it. If your dishes are still not clean after, use a damp sponge to clean instead of a constant stream of water from the faucet.
The Takeaway?
Water may seem unlimited, but it is not. By reducing the amount of water you use, you can help the environment, and save some money. These changes are relatively simple and can be integrated into your daily lives.
