SOME TIPS TO SAVE WATER!
Water scarcity has reached crisis proportions in sunny South Africa, most notably in Cape Town where it’s so unexpected, and residents are having to take innovative and drastic steps to reduce water usage. Here are some tips:
- Much like we wouldn’t leave the tap running whilst brushing teeth, don’t leave the water running in the shower whilst soaping or shampooing oneself! Admittedly this takes some discipline in winter, but really, it’s a terrible waste to leave the taps on. And don’t forget the bucket or basin in the shower to collect water to flush the loo!
- Biodegradable toilet paper! What?!, you may ask, I thought toilet paper was biodegradable! So on the whole it is relatively, but if you switch to paper that is specifically biodegradable you will be saving water because it takes LOTS more water to decompose the regular stuff.
- Check out the various cycles offered on your washing machine. It may take a bit of getting used to, but using the economy cycle or quick wash really isn’t going to make a huge difference in your life as far as hygiene goes, but it is going to save water! I only use the longer cycles for heavily soiled clothing and bedding.
- Also make sure that the washing machine and the dishwasher are full before running a cycle. It wastes water to do lots of little loads of laundry, or to use the dishwasher when it’s not full. Also make sure that any new appliances you purchase rate high on the energy efficiency scale (think green, definitely not orange or red).
- Also . . . it’s easier and cheaper than you think to reroute the water from the washing machine to the garden! It can be simply a matter of some extra piping and a fitting. So although this doesn’t technically save water, it redistributes it so that you can water your veggie garden and there you’ve created a win win situation!
- It’s still possible to have a beautiful & decorative garden without using much water – simply plant endemic and drought resistant plants. Endemics remain true to the environment in which they thrive, and make more sense in all ways than an English Rose Garden in Africa!
- Rain tanks. Yes, they are expensive, but it’s a long term investment and one that simply can’t go wrong. Next time it rains, just watch the amount of water that pours off your roof and goes nowhere . . .
- This seems obvious but CHECK for drippy droppy taps or any other leaks! Leaking water is simply a criminal waste of this precious resource, and especially in these times of scarcity.
- The little things count! Don’t throw kitty’s old water out – water a plant with it. If you’re boiling vegetables – use as little water as is necessary just to cover them. When you’re running water to wash the dishes, catch the cold water in a jug – you can use it! Read how businesses can get involved too!
- EDUCATE EDUCATE EDUCATE! Everyone in your circle. Especially your beautiful vibrant children; this younger generation is now the future of our planet.
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