For Immediate Release-Each day, American's consume approximately 200 billion gallons of water. On top of that, each year more than 10 billion plastic water bottles end up as garbage in landfills. As the US population increases, the demands on our water resources continue to increase. This puts a strain on our environment but there is a way to make a difference and impact this growing trend.
Purchasing water filters can lead to reduced plastic water bottle waste. Instead, filter your own water and place it in a reusable bottle. Your average water filter can replace approximately 3000 16oz plastic water bottles saving you and the environment. You are saving big money by filtering your own water and you are saving the environment by eliminating plastic water bottles from the landfill.
Other ways to conserve water include keeping a pitcher of filtered drinking water in the refrigerator so you don't have to run the water faucet to get the water cool. Also, make sure all of our water faucets are turned off and are not leaking. A leaking faucet really adds up and can account for 4000 gallons of water waste per year. When you are doing laundry, run only full loads. This also holds true for dishwashers. This can save up to 800 gallons of water per month. Finally, consider water efficiency when you purchase a new laundry machine. Today's energy star appliances use 40 percent less water and can save you up to 6000 gallons per year.
You can also conserve water in the bathroom. Replace the parts in your toilet to secure the tank from leaks. Avoid running the water while brushing your teeth, shaving or washing your face. Install water-saving shower heads and shorten your shower time.
Conserving water outside is one of the biggest things you can do to impact the environment. Avoid excessive watering. Most yards require much less than you think to enjoy a thick, lush, green appearance. Most lawns require only 1 inch of water per week. You can measure the time it takes your sprinkler to collect 1 inch of water and then factor that into future waterings. Also, don't forget about the contribution to outdoor watering that Mother Nature brings. Install a water gauge to measure rain water and factor that into your watering schedule. Lay a layer of mulch around trees and flowerbeds to help hold moisture in the soil. Pull large weeds to decrease competition for water. Watering in the evenings or early mornings will ensure your water isn't evaporated before it can be used by your lawn, plants, flowers and trees.
These simple tips will help you save money and protect the environment. Inside, purchase a water filter and filter your own tap water. Outside, be aware of your water use and optimize when you use it.
No comments:
Post a Comment