Introduction to Water Conservation

Why Water Conservation?

I hope you are familiar with the beautiful quote – ‘It’s the little things that
matter most’.
Yes, little things do matter a lot. Small actions in our daily routine are enough
to waste a huge quantity of freshwater. Turning on taps while brushing teeth or
shaving, flushing toilets unwantedly, ignoring leakages of taps, washing vehicles
with fresh water, etc., are some of the most common ways by which people
unknowingly waste water. Did you know that a leaking tap in a bathroom can
waste an approximate count of about 4000 drops of water in a single day,
which is a litre of water wasted unknowingly?
Availability of pure drinking water is an absolute necessity for every individual
around the world, and for ensuring its availability, a worldwide effort is needed.
There is very less fresh water present on our Earth and therefore every single
drop counts, so try to conserve it.
What do you know about Water?
Basically what is water?
Water is a transparent, odourless, tasteless liquid, a compound of hydrogen
and oxygen ie h2O,
There are two types of water present on Earth—
Salt Water and Fresh water
Salt Water
Water that contains a significant concentration of dissolved salts. Salt water (or
saline water) is water with a large amount of salt in it. It usually means the
water from the seas and oceans (sea water). Almost all the water on Earth is
saline.
Fresh Water
Freshwater is water that contains only minimal quantities of dissolved salts,
thus distinguishing it from sea water. All freshwater ultimately comes from
precipitation of atmospheric water vapor, reaching inland lakes, rivers, and
groundwater bodies directly, or after melting of snow or ice.
Importance of Water Conservation
We all know that water is the most useful resource on Earth. Also, we all are
aware of its immense uses. So, can we imagine our lives without water? Umm
A big NO, we use water for household, agricultural, industrial and other
purposes. Also, it is used for environmental purposes. Although, 71% of the
Earth’s Surface is covered by water, yet, only 3% of Earth's water is fresh water
and 1% of this fresh water is fit for drinking, rest is locked up in the ground,
glaciers and ice caps. Most of our industrial and household tasks cannot be
completed without water.
Despite its importance, we are facing deterioration in water resources.
Although, it is a natural resource, yet we need to conserve the same. Also, it is
essential for maintaining the Earth’s temperature. The human body is made up
of a huge amount of water. Thus, human beings and animals need much water
to drink. From drinking to cooking to everything, we need water.
Distribution of Waters
The distribution of water on Earth is uneven and complex:
Ocean
Fresh Water
Glacier
Atmosphere
Ocean And Glacier
What is Ocean?
Definition of ocean states that around 321 million cubic miles of water is
contained in the oceans, accounting for roughly 97% of the world's water
source. Ocean is made up of salty water. Historically, there are four named
oceans: the Atlantic, Pacific, Indian, and Arctic. However, most countries -
including the United States - now recognize the Southern (Antarctic) as the fifth
ocean. The Pacific, Atlantic, and Indian are the most commonly known. The
Southern Ocean is the 'newest' named ocean.
What is Glacier?
A glacier is a large, perennial accumulation of crystalline ice, snow, rock,
sediment, and often liquid water that originates on land and moves down slope
under the influence of its own weight and gravity. Typically, glaciers exist and
may even form in areas where:
1. mean annual temperatures are close to the freezing point
2. winter precipitation produces significant accumulations of snow
What is Atmosphere?
Water from the Earth is distributed through the atmosphere through the water
cycle. This natural process draws water up from the ground through the sky
and atmosphere and drops it down in the form of rain and and other water
sources.
Water Awareness
Water awareness involves understanding the value of water as a vital resource
and recognizing the importance of conserving it. It includes being mindful of
water usage, educating others about the need to protect and manage water
resources, and adopting practices that reduce waste. Promoting water
awareness helps ensure that communities use water responsibly, protect
natural water sources, and support long-term sustainability.

Causes of Water Scarcity

Water scarcity is caused by a combination of factors, including climate change,
which leads to altered rainfall patterns and prolonged droughts, and population
growth, which increases demand for water. Over-extraction of groundwater
and surface water for agriculture, industry, and domestic use further depletes
water resources. Pollution of freshwater sources also reduces the availability of
clean water. Inefficient water management and infrastructure, along with
political and economic factors, can exacerbate the problem, leading to unequal
access to water.
Strategies for Water Conservation
1. Fix Leaks: Repair leaking faucets, pipes, and toilets to prevent water waste.
2. Install Water-Saving Fixtures: Use low-flow showerheads, faucets, and
toilets.
3. Efficient Irrigation: Water plants during cooler times of the day and use drip
irrigation systems.
4. Reuse Water: Collect rainwater and use greywater for irrigation and other
non-potable purposes.
5. Run Full Loads: Operate dishwashers and washing machines with full loads
to maximize efficiency.
6. Educate Others: Promote water-saving practices and raise awareness in your
community.
7. Monitor Usage: Regularly check water bills and use meters to track and
reduce consumption.
Efficient Water Usage
Efficient water usage involves using water in ways that minimize waste and
promote conservation. Key practices include fixing leaks, using water-saving
fixtures like low-flow faucets and toilets, watering plants during cooler parts of
the day to reduce evaporation, and running full loads in dishwashers and
washing machines. Collecting rainwater and reusing greywater for non-potable
purposes are also effective strategies. By being mindful of water use,
individuals can reduce consumption, lower utility bills, and contribute to
environmental sustainability.
Amount of Water to use for daily tasks
Here is the list on average water used in our daily tasks
Brushing Teeth = 2 litres
Taking a Shower = 9 litres
Washing Dishes (by Hand) = 10 litres
Watering Lawn = 50 litres
Recycling and Reusing Water
Basically what do you mean by Recycling and Reusing of Water?
Recycling and reusing water involve using water multiple times to conserve
resources. Recycling treats wastewater to make it suitable for new uses, while
reusing involves repurposing water from sinks or showers for tasks like
irrigation or toilet flushing. These practices help reduce water consumption and
environmental impact.
Installing Water System
Installing a water system involves setting up infrastructure to supply and
manage water in a building or area. This includes connecting to a water source,
such as a municipal supply or well, and installing pipes, fixtures, and fittings for
distribution. The system often includes components like water heaters,
filtration units, and valves to control flow and pressure. Proper installation
ensures efficient water delivery, minimizes leaks, and supports effective
management of water resources.