Water is essential for life, but it’s a limited resource. Only about 3% of the world’s water isfreshwater, and two-thirds of that is locked up in ice caps and glaciers. That leaves less than 1% for all of humanity’s needs — for drinking, bathing, growing food, manufacturing products, generating power, and keeping rivers and lakes clean.
As the world’s population continues to grow and water demand increases, it’s more important than ever that we all do our part to conserve this precious resource. Here are four simple ways you can save water:
1. Fix leaks
A leaky faucet can waste a lot of water over time. A single drip can add up to 20 gallons of wasted water per day, which equals over 7,000 gallons per year! Not only will fixing leaks save water, it can also save you money on your water bill.
2. Don’t let the water run
When you’re brushing your teeth or washing your hands, turn the faucet off while you’re lathering up. The same goes for rinsing dishes—if you have a double sink, fill one sink with soapy water and the other with clean water for rinsing. You can also save water (and time) by taking shorter showers.
3. Water your plants wisely
When you’re watering your plants, be sure to do it in the morning or evening when it’s cooler outside. Watering during the heat of the day can cause evaporation, which means you’ll need to use more water to achieve the same results. Also, don’t water your plants more than they need—check the soil before watering to see if it’s dry.
4. Use a rain barrel
A rain barrel is a great way to collect and use rainwater for watering plants. Not only does it save water, it can also save you money on your water bill. You can buy a rain barrel or make your own.
By following these simple tips, you can do your part to conserve water and protect this vital resource for future generations.