Clean, sparkling, fresh water. One of the many abundances of nature provided free of cost to us that has often been taken for granted. While water is necessary for the survival of life on the planet, at the end of the day, it is a finite resource. The entire world is facing a water crisis, and India is no exception. Our country plays host to 16% of the world’s population with just 4% of the world’s water resources to sustain this population. It is further estimated that 38,000 million litres of wastewater are generated every single day in urban areas. In light of the growing environmental crisis, it is essential to save every last drop of water in every way we can. If you are looking to make a positive change for the environment, here is how you can get started.
Switch off when not in use
In the face of mighty statistics, it can seem like a grand gesture is required to save the planet. However, the road to effective water conservation begins with one simple act: switching off taps when not in use while brushing, shaving or showering.
Prevent leaks
Make no mistake, the steady drip of a leaking faucet can waste as much as 75 litres of water every day, while leaking toilets can waste twice as much. It pays to stay vigilant and fix leakages as soon as they occur to save the unnecessary wastage of water.
Recycle water
Much like clothes, water can also be recycled creatively to dial back everyday consumption. After rinsing fruits and veggies, the same water can be used to water shrubbery in the garden to ensure maximum use out of every drop.
Lower the flow
Needless to say, the bathroom serves as one of the major culprits for escalating water consumption in residential areas. Overhead showers can contribute to 17% of water usage, so it pays to switch to low-flow faucets that will offer considerable water savings.
Double-dip your dishes
If you’re looking to cut back water usage while washing dishes, keep the tap off and instead fill a large container with cold water. Instead of rinsing dishes under the free flow of a faucet at full speed, dip your dishes into the cold water to use half the water you usually would.
Opt for hand watering
The free supply of hose water can also lead to unnecessary usage of water in and around the house. If you are watering the garden, it pays to do it by hand so you can monitor the usage of water. Likewise, when washing cars, opt for a pail of water to wipe down your car.
Reuse rainwater
For a few months every year, we receive a free supply of water sent down from the heavens. Instead of letting it (literally) flow down the drain, place a water barrel on the roof of your house to create your own reservoir of water. This can then be used around the house for cleaning activities with heavy water usage, such as vehicles, or for filling garden ponds and birdbaths.
Saving the entire planet’s water resources may not be possible overnight, but what is possible is indulging in simple acts of consciousness that can make a marked difference to the environment that we live in. Are you ready to take this first step with us?