Water: Precious Like Gold
by Julie Peckham, Green Team Coordinator

Did you know that fresh water makes up only 3% of all water on earth? With an ever-growing population, it is important to cut waste in all the ways we can. See below for tips on cutting waste around your home:

In the Kitchen:

• When washing dishes by hand, fill a dishpan with sudsy water and a rinse pan with clear water, so the faucet isn't running for such a long time.
• Only run your dishwasher when you have a full load. 
• Designate a glass for each family member to use for several days before washing.

In the Bathroom:

• Upgrade to low-flow showers and toilets.
• Make your showers short (1-3 minutes).
• While waiting for water to run hot, collect the water in a bucket and use it to water plants.
• Turn off the tap while you're brushing teeth (fill a cup with water for rinsing).
• Flush your toilet only after "Number Two." (Remember the old saying: "If it's yellow, let it mellow; if it's brown, flush it down.")

In the Laundry Room:

• Only run your washing machine with a full load.
• Most loads get just as clean using cold water.

In the Yard:

• Water your yard in the early morning or evening to reduce evaporation, and only water when needed. 
• Collect rain water in barrels for yard use. 
• Mulch garden beds to promote water retention. You can also leave grass clippings on the lawn after mowing to help hold in moisture.