The Environmental Importance of Water Conservation

Learning about the water cycle conditions us to think of water as a renewable resource. Even wasted water will eventually evaporate and come back in the form of precipitation. The realities of our environment are far different, however, and the conservation of fresh water is one of the most important issues facing our fragile planet. Climate instability and human intervention have changed the natural course of our water supply, making drinkable water a scarcity in many parts of our world and on the verge of becoming as scarcity in others. Beyond the danger this poses to humans, animal habitats are rapidly drying, creating a serious threat for native and migratory populations.

Irresponsible water usage compounds the issue even further. By overwatering plants, leaving the tap running and using wasteful appliances, consumers drive demand for more and more water to be transported from overseas. Wasted water is also wasted energy. A significant amount of each country’s electricity consumption is devoted to water management, and poor management results in inefficient energy expenditures.

The best way to combat this sort of waste in your own home is to use efficient appliances such as low-flush toilets, dual flush toilets, low-flow shower heads and Energy Star rated washing machines. When combined with careful use of your faucet, these appliances can greatly reduce the amount of water wasted on a daily basis.

Fresh Water Conservation in Agriculture

While the home is the source of many water conservation issues, and the site for many improvements, the single greatest obstacle to conserving fresh water is agriculture. Massive irrigation projects and permanently damaged soil not only leech away fresh water irresponsibly, but form an obstacle to the water cycle’s attempt to replenish itself through rainfall.

Farmers using sustainable practices are working hard to reverse this trend through the cultivation of local-friendly plant varieties, smaller-scale farming ventures and a dedication to the promotion of healthy soil. Healthy soil is living soil, and a combination of soil conditioners and probiotic amendments can help restore farming soil to its natural state. These sustainable practices help facilitate a healthy flow of water without shedding precipitation or unnecessarily hording freshwater. Companies like TeraGanix are committed to providing natural solutions, both at home and in the field. For more information on conservation-minded living decisions and agricultural practices, visit our website to learn more.