There is no resource more precious than water. And there is no resource that is much misused, abused, misallocated than water. The Food and Agricultural Organisation of the United Nations has warned that within two decades, the majority of earth’s population could face serious water shortages. The main culprit is poor water management practices. But the opportunities to be more efficient abound too. Here are some simple tips most of us can apply right away.

Every drop adds up.

Reports by the U.S. Geological Survey shows that one faulty faucet can waste almost 3 gallons of water per day.

Take Showers Rather Than Baths

Showering with a low-flow showerhead can slash bathing-water consumption by 50 to 70 percent out of almost 100 litres of water!

Wash Full Load

Washing machines can use up to 40 gallons of water per load. Wait until you have a full load of clothes before washing and use economy mode to save both water and electricity! Choose low suds laundry detergents that rinse cleanly and don’t require extra rinses.

Catch the rain

Start harvesting rainwater and use it to water plants, wash the car, the driveway, lawn or garden.

Make Good Use of Greywater

Use greywater from sinks and washing machines to water the garden, wash the bathroom, etc.

Turn off the tap

According to the Environmental Protection Agency, the average bathroom faucet flows at a rate of two gallons a minute. So turn off tap while brushing teeth or shaving.

Wash Vegetables In A Pan

Wash vegetables and fruits in a pan of water instead of under running tap water to cut back on water wastage.

Reduce Water Heater Temperature

Reduce the temperature of water heaters to lessen the amount of mixing needed to be done in order to achieve a temperature that won’t scald your skin.

Don’t Hose When Washing Your Car

Clean your car using a pail of soapy water and sponge. Use a spray nozzle when rinsing for more efficient use of water – this simple practice can save as much as 150 gallons.

Water Plants in the Morning

Morning air is cooler, so less water is lost to evaporation than during the middle of the day. It also reduces water waste and promotes healthy flora. After sunset is another ideal time to water those plants.

Get A Dual Flush Toilet

Remember one full flush discharges almost 9 litres of water. You can choose the half flush button or full flush button according to your needs.

Convert Your Toilet to Low Flush

Place a plastic bottle filled with water (smaller sizes will float) inside your toilet’s water tank. This way you use less water each time you flush without compromising the effectiveness.

Remember, water is scarce. By using water wisely, you not only save water, but also energy, money, as well as cut down your household’s carbon footprint. So make saving water your culture. Future generations will thank you for it.