This post is the final in a series on energy consumption and conservation by our AmeriCorps Volunteer Jordan Hoover. For other posts in this series please click here.
Water, as we all know, is an absolutely crucial resource in sustaining human life. Aside from the air we breathe, no other single substance is more vital.
Here at the Mountain Watershed Association, we understand the importance of clean water, and the potential risks that accompany exploratory actions and extraction by mining companies in our area.
Here are a few simple ways you can cut back on the amount of water you use, save money, and help the environment, all at the same time.
- When brushing your teeth, only turn your faucet on when necessary.
- As much fun as it is to hone your vocal skills in the morning, consider taking shorter showers.
- Instead of letting your faucet run continually when washing dishes, fill up your sink instead.
- Monitor toilets, sinks, and faucets for leaks.
- Consider installing low-capacity flush toilets and energy-efficient showerheads for bathrooms.
- If you own a dishwasher, only use it when it is filled to capacity.
- Avoid washing small loads of laundry. Also, if purchasing a new washing machine, consider an energy-efficient model.
- Use Mother Nature’s carwash (rainwater) whenever possible.
- Consider gathering rain water to use for gardens and household plants (as of January 2015, rainwater collection is legal in the state of PA. However, certain states have instituted regulations regarding collection, making it something to be aware of in the future).
By adopting some or all of these methods in our daily lives, you can have a positive effect on the environment by using less of one of our most precious natural resources. Your efforts will be beneficial financially, as well for the entire planet.
Where Do We Go From Here?
Throughout this series I have highlighted specific ways in which we as individuals can make small changes to our routines that can eventually enact enormous, positive results for our planet. Whether it’s by purchasing more efficient light bulbs, or simply taking shorter showers, the ease with which we can make improvements really leaves us no excuse not to act.
Maintaining a broad overview of the problem is crucial. In essence, we here at the Mountain Watershed Association are concerned about the future of the water in our communities. We are concerned about outside forces (mining, drilling, etc.) threating our right to clean, abundant, drinkable water for ourselves and for generations to come.
Our efforts in fighting against future mineral extraction in our area are only part of the battle. By simply being mindful of the amount of resources we use, and by making proactive changes to use less when we can, we are quietly, but powerfully, making a strong case against the need for continued mining activities. If less energy is needed overall, the demand for drilling and mining should also decrease.
Supply and demand is one of the oldest concepts known to man, and in this case, the consumer (all of us) truly has the power to affect large corporations. Be empowered, make changes, and help us fight for the future of our planet.