Eco-Mamas

Water Water Everywhere?

Drought is a gradual phenomenon, one that creeps up on us slowly, tightening its economical, social and environmental grip over time.

The United Nations estimates that one third of the world's population lives in areas with water shortages, and 1.1 billion—with a "b"—people lack access to safe drinking water. In the next century, extreme drought will affect 30 percent of all human life on Earth, and moderate drought will affect half of all of us.

While more than 70 percent of the Earth's surface is covered by bodies of water, clean and potable water remains a major challenge for a large percentage of the world's population because less than one percent of the water on the planet's surface is suitable for human consumption.

Using water wisely is a matter of becoming aware of the water we use for our day-to-day activities, and making simple adjustments to our daily habits.

In the House
Fix those leaks!
Don't let the water run while brushing teeth or washing dishes.
Install low-flush toilets and low-flow faucets and shower heads.
Run your washing machine and dishwasher only when full.
Compost instead of using a garbage disposal.
Use the water from rinsing to water plants.
Wash produce in a sink full of water rather than under a running tap.

In the Yard
Use wastewater from rain barrels or other catchment systems for irrigation.
Water your lawn or garden during the coolest parts of the day.
Refrain from watering on windy days.
Use trees and shrubs for your landscape; they have deeper root systems and require less water.
Use natural, non-dyed mulch around plantings to avoid evaporation.
Minimize or eliminate fertilizing, which requires additional watering.

A Solution to Water Shortages in Africa? Playing!