Simple Ways to Reduce Your Water Footprint at Home

Water security is a growing concern, and an issue that’s important to all of us. As water security is compromised by climate change, pollution and infrastructure challenges, it’s essential to examine our role in reducing our water footprints, both as individuals and as organisations.

Thankfully, it doesn’t take much effort to have a big, positive impact. A combination of awareness and good habits can greatly reduce a household’s water footprint across years.

Here, we’ll examine what a water footprint is, and provide tips and advice on keeping your water footprint down in a practical, accessible way.

According to  the Environmental Protection Agency in the US, “a full bathtub requires about 70 gallons of water, while taking a shower uses 10 to 25 gallons.” So, having a shower instead of a bath every day saves an estimated 60 gallons per person, per day!

While we’re on the subject, it’s recommended to take short showers. That 10-25 gallons number only applies if you shower for less than five minutes. If in doubt, you can set a timer (in fact, many bathroom and shower supply companies provide them) to keep the timing short.

If you’re still not convinced, plug the stopper during your next shower and you’ll see how it barely begins to fill the bath. 

Brushing your teeth? Rinsing vegetables? Turn off that tap when you can! (Indeed, when rinsing vegetables, you do so with a strainer or a bowl.) Running a tap  can use up to six litres of water per minute ! And again, if it’s an everyday occurrence, the water waste can really add up. 

Dishwashers have a bad reputation for water usage, but modern appliances can use less water than if you washed the same items by hand. However, that doesn’t mean you should be flippant and extravagant when using the dishwasher: A dishwasher cycle can be about 3 gallons (or 13 litres) of water per load, so make the most of that load! Don’t use the dishwasher when it’s half-full. Make the most of the machine’s capabilities.

(Bonus: Using your dishwasher more efficiently reduces your energy bills, too.)  

Maintaining your house is always a good idea, and this is especially true when it comes to water and leaks. Keep an eye out for dripping taps and leaks, which can squander gallons of water every week without being used at all. 

When possible, look at ways to re-use water before it disappears down the drain for good. This might require a little lateral thinking, but here are some ideas to get you started:

    -          Clean your car with water from your shower (use a stopper or bucket when showering to gather the water).

    -          Water plants with pasta (or other cooking) water.

    -          Use your bathwater to bathe your pets.

    -          Throw leftover ice on the lawn.

    -          Use leftover drinking water to rinse or cook with (especially handy if you have half-full water bottles in the house).