Water is an essential element of life and without water; life would simply cease to exist.  There is a limited amount of water on earth and water shortages are increasing on a regular basis.  Water scarcity is a growing, worldwide problem that is not limited to developing countries.   Many parts of North America are suffering from dry conditions and dwindling water resources.  It is essential that all water users focus on water efficiency.  What can we do to help the water crisis?

Conservation is extremely important if the world hopes to curb the excessive amount of water that is wasted each and every day.  A new movement is beginning to help raise awareness about the importance of water conservation.  Right now, the world is focused on the “green” environmental movement but a “blue” environmental movement may be what we need to focus on. 

Think Blue.  Go Beyond.
Blue is a more specific way to describe “green issues” as they pertain to water (any water-drinking water, wastewater, water resources, and stormwater).  Blue brings to mind the oceans which are in dire need of saving and the dwindling supplies of clean water found in communities worldwide.  The term “green” is being overused and because of that, seems to be losing some impact.    

The following statistics outline just how important focusing on blue issues can be for the entire global community.

• One sixth of the world's population does not have access to clean drinking water
• More than 2 million people (most of them children) die each year from water-borne diseases
• Less than 1% of the world’s fresh water (or about 0.007% of all water on earth) is readily accessible for direct human use

Water Treatment Plants (WTP)
What can WTPs do to join the “blue” movement and help conserve our limited water supply?  Here are some easy steps to get you started.

AWWA conservation bill stuffers

• AWWA provides “bill stuffers” that can be used to inform the public about many important water issues and provide tips for conserving water. Click here to view the AWWA bill stuffers.

Metering

• Billing customers based on their actual water use has been found to contribute directly to water conservation. http://www.epa.gov/owow/NPS/chap3.html

Leak detection

• Use listening equipment to survey the distribution system and pinpoint the exact locations of hidden underground leaks.  http://www.epa.gov/owow/NPS/chap3.html

Retrofit programs

• Retrofitting involves the replacement of existing plumbing equipment with equipment that uses less water.  A retrofit program can involve the use of education programs to let users know which fixtures are best, where to get them, and how to install them. 

Water Audits

• In January 2010, the AWWA Water Loss Control Committee released Version 4.1 of its own Free Water Audit Software, available to all users.  For more information visit http://www.awwa.org/Resources/WaterLossControl.cfm?ItemNumber=48511

Even though these steps may seem relatively small, all water conservation makes a difference. 

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If you would like more information regarding water conservation and how AE2S can help you with this, contact AE2S at 701-746-8087.