Understanding Water Scarcity
Less than 3% of Earth's water is fresh; the rest is saline and ocean-based. Even then, just 1% is easily accessible, with much of it trapped in glaciers and snowfields.
High-Efficiency Appliances
High-efficiency washing machines can save up to 50% of water usage. Modern dishwashers can save up to 5,000 gallons of water per year compared to traditional hand washing.
Rainwater Harvesting Systems
Collecting rainwater reduces dependence on groundwater. A 1,000 square foot roof can collect over 600 gallons from just 1 inch of rain, potentially supplying a household's non-potable water needs.
Drip Irrigation in Agriculture
Drip irrigation delivers water directly to plant roots with precision, reducing evaporation losses by up to 60% compared to conventional methods, and saving 30-50% more water.
Native Landscaping Choices
Native plants require less water than non-native species. They are adapted to local climates and once established, they need minimal irrigation beyond normal rainfall.
Fixing Household Leaks
A single dripping faucet can waste over 3,000 gallons per year. Household leaks can waste approximately nearly 1 trillion gallons annually in the United States alone.
Greywater Recycling Innovation
Greywater systems reuse water from sinks, showers, and laundry to irrigate gardens. Advanced systems can treat and repurpose up to 70% of domestic wastewater for non-potable uses.