Save Water, Save Energy. . .
Reducing your “water footprint” can go a long way toward conserving energy. At a minimum, the United States uses the equivalent of 520 billion kilowatt hours per year--equivalent to 13% of the nation’s total electricity use--to pump, heat and treat water. This is double what is generated by all of the nation’s hydroelectric dams in an average year and equal to the output of over 150 typical coal-fired power plants!
For the average person, there’s the water we use directly -- in our kitchens and bathrooms, to wash our clothes and keep our yards and gardens growing and our cars clean. And indirectly -- water that helps make the things we use and the food we eat. One way we can make a difference is by choosing “low-flow” fixtures and water efficient appliances for our homes. Take a look at the EPA’s WaterSense® site, www.epa.gov/WaterSense. Its chock full of tips, resources and even rebates for making your home more water efficient.