Water Efficiency & Management
Water is one of the basic needs for quality life here on earth. The importance of water cannot be overemphasized, it holds the most important benefit’s to man’s sustenance besides shelter, food, and clothing (Ajadi, 1996).
National Bureau of Statistics in 2006, released the data confirming that only 51.4% of Nigerians have access to safe water.
There has been a great decline in this data now as the years rolled by, posing a great challenge on how to efficiently use the supplied available water in our households, manufacturing industries, agricultural practices, etc.
According to research, 2.6 billion people do not have safe drinking water. Added to this, are the changes in climate, population growth, and lifestyles. The changes in human lifestyles and activities require more consumption of water. Hence, there is a great need to device effective ways to secure our water in other to avoid wastage, provide possible ways of accessing clean drinkable water, and recycle them.
Water efficiency and management revolve around the availability of safe drinkable water, with a structured system that recycles it to reduce wastage.
Sustainable green environment initiative has come up with the idea of creating awareness for individuals, communities, and the government, the need to provide safe drinkable water in a clean environment (SDG 6). This in returns helps to promote good well-being and prevent water-borne diseases. (THINKING GREEN)
This initiative also drives the cause to sensitize individuals and communities to effectively use and manage water to reduce wastage. With recent advancements in technology and innovations, there is a need for individuals to upgrade household equipment to the latest ones that economize water. An example of this is the dual flush valves for water closets and high-efficiency water closets (low flush) that use 1.3 gallons per flush or less. Aerators or flow reducers can also be installed to reduce water wastage. Another way of reducing water wastage also includes cultivating the habit and consciousness of safe water. Like, turning off the tap while brushing teeth, (saves 6 liters per minute). Fixing dripping taps, washing vegetables and fruits in a bowl rather than under a running tap, to mention a few. (ACTING GREEN).
The need to advocate for the recycling of used water from households in a community is also contained in this initiative. This will help reduce pollution caused by stagnant water as a result of a refuse blockage in gutters in the community. This in the long run will help to keep and sustain our green environment (SUSTAIN GREEN).
In conclusion, when all the above idea of creating awareness for accessibility of safe drinkable water, recycling of used water, and setting measures to reduce water wastage is put to use, we would be efficient in our water usage and management. Thereby, saving our water, our earth, and sustaining our green environment.