| Sustainability and the Plumbing Industry As the world’s population increases ( view world population clock ) and prolonged drought conditions continue to strain water quality and supply, water conservation and preservation issues are understandably a top priority around the globe. According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the U.S. population has grown 90 percent in the last 50 years, but public demand for water has risen 209 percent. A recent survey showed at least 36 states foresee local, regional or statewide water shortages by 2013. Now more than ever it is critical to incorporate highly effective plumbing products and technologies into renovation and new construction projects. For example, installing one Energy Star qualified clothes washer can save roughly 7,000 gallons per year per household. Installing one dual flush toilet can save roughly 10,000 gallons per year. In a typical home, two dual flush toilets double the savings to 20,000 per year for a family of four. One of many other tactics is the installation of a tankless/on-site hot water heater which not only reduces energy consumption, but water usage since there is no “running cold to get to the hot.” There are also several “water re-use” systems to consider. Reusing gray water can provide 50 to 100 gallons per day for outdoor use and toilet flushing, cutting water and sewer bills noticeably. Infrastructure and product improvements are just part of the story. Behavior modification is a third critical component toward reducing the amounts water we use. Product education and consumer orientation is key and will prove essential as the building industry moves ahead with the implementation of new technologies. Tips for water conservation |