Facts on Recycling & Conserving Water
- Conserving water has many environmental benefits. Wise use of water decreases water pollution by reducing the contact that water resources may have with potential contaminants. When you conserve water at home, you will save money. You also reduce your carbon footprint by curbing your energy use to heat water. When you use less energy, you reduce the levels of carbon dioxide emissions from fossil-burning power plants from fueling your home's energy needs.
- Conserving water begins in your home. A family of four uses approximately 260 gallons of water a day, the majority of which is used in the bathroom, according to the University of Minnesota Extension. To conserve water, install water-saving shower heads and low-volume toilets. Plant native plants in your garden to reduce the amount of water you use watering your plants. Native flora requires less maintenance and will be more tolerant of local conditions.
- Recycling water is the primary function of wastewater treatment plants. These facilities remove toxins from water so that the resource can be recycled. You can also recycle water at home. One way you can do so is by collecting rainwater in a water barrel. You can then recycle it by watering your garden and plants. You will save money and conserve water.
- Hydroelectricity represents the ultimate form of recycling water. This clean, alternate form of energy supplies nearly 20 percent of the world's electricity, according to National Geographic. While it does have environmental costs, it remains the cheapest way to generate power. It is also energy-efficient, with hydroelectric generators recycling water within their systems to manage peaks in energy demand.
- It will be essential to conserve and recycle water in the future. Serious environmental issues threaten the world's water supply. According to the World Bank, more than 3 billion people worldwide will face water shortages by 2035, including people of western United States. A 2002 study confirmed these dire warnings in an article published in National Geographic that predicted that a freshwater shortage will be among the primary threats facing the world in the 21st century. That being so, any measures you can take to recycle and conserve water will help relieve the pressure on this irreplaceable resource.
