Mark your calendars for March 22, which is World Water Day. Although approximately 70 percent of the earth is covered with water, access to clean, fresh water is a global crisis. Without clean water, people are highly vulnerable to waterborne illnesses and lack the opportunity to become prosperous, creating poverty and limiting economic stability.
What is World Water Day?
In 1993, in response to this global crisis, the United Nations established World Water Day to raise awareness around water scarcity and to discuss solutions to this growing problem. Each year is assigned a theme. 2017’s theme is “Wastewater”.
Wastewater
Wastewater is important because it can represent a sustainable solution to the water shortage, especially in poverty-stricken countries. It’s about leveraging and repurposing what you do have at your disposal to meet the need.
As members of the global community, we all have a part to play when it comes to reducing our water footprint. Action speaks louder than words, so here are some simple steps that you can take to make a difference.
You’d be surprised at how much water is wasted if you have a plumbing leak. Not only does this wasted water increase your water footprint, but it can also cost you lots of money on water bills. How do you know if you have a leak?
Here are some hints: If you see water pooling, find wet spots or notice an increase in mold and mildew, you may have a leaky pipe. If you see your water meter increasing or if your bills go up unexpectedly, investigate further.
Check for a Leaky Faucet or Toilet
A leaky faucet is common and easy to spot. Leaky toilets are more problematic and harder to determine. To see if this is the case, drop a dye tablet into the tank of your toilet. Wait 10 or 15 minutes and look in the toilet bowl. If the color has seeped into the bowl, you’ve got yourself a toilet leak that requires professional attention.
Avoid Using Excess Water Outside
It doesn’t take much work to make a big difference when it comes to water use. It’s really about being mindful.
Outside, don’t use a hose to wash down your driveway. Sweep it with a broom instead. When you wash your car, turn the hose off while you are soaping it up. In your garden, don’t water gutters or pavement and aim the sprinkler at the lawn only.
Deep soak your lawn so that it stays damp for longer. Only water when absolutely necessary and only do in the early morning or at night when water is less likely to evaporate in the heat of the day.
Be Mindful With How You Use Water in Your Home
Inside your home, turn the water off while you are brushing your teeth. Only run your dishwasher and washing machine when they are full. Rinse your razor in the sink with filled water, rather than running the water. Take shorter showers.
If you combine all of these into your daily routine, can you imagine the difference that you could make?