The world’s water supply is in crisis.  Out of the Earth’s 333 million cubic miles of water, only 1% is actually usable by humans.  Projections say that by 2025, people will be using up to ¾ of the planet’s accessible freshwater supply.  Combine that with the severe drought that is plaguing many parts of the world, and the crisis elevates.  Farms and agriculture account for almost 70% of our water usage, losing more than 50% through leakage. 

In 2006, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) launched a water conservation program called WaterSense.  This program promotes water efficiency and has increased the demand for water conservation products and practices.  Many manufacturers throughout the bathroom industry have created WaterSense labeled products, which use 20% less water than traditional bathroom products.  These products include toilets, showerheads, faucets and urinals.  “It’s important to note,” says Jim Lewis, VP of Marketing for Kohler, “ that federally, and in the vast majority of municipalities, there are no new regulations.  The EPA WaterSense program is voluntary in most places.”  Kohler has made a huge commitment to water conservation products and was even named the 2009 WaterSense Partner of the Year.  Kohler now filters the development of all new products through their More Environmentally Friendly concept.  “Water conservation is the major focus for the plumbing group, but we are looking at sustainable materials and processes with every product.”  For example, Kohler makes many bathtubs and sinks out of Cast Iron, which is made of 93% recycled goods.   

You might be thinking, what can a single person do to help conserve water in the bathroom?  Here are some tips from around the industry:

1.   Fix leaky faucets – That little annoying drip coming from your faucet can waste more than 3,000 gallons of water each year.

2.   Take a shower instead of a bath -  Bathtubs use 70 + gallons of water, while taking a 10 minute shower would use only 25 gallons.  If you are like me and can’t give up your baths, plug the tub drain before you turn on the water and adjust the temperature as the tub is filling.  This will prevent some wasting of water.

3.   Turn off the faucet – Turning off the faucet while you are brushing your teeth twice a day can save up to 2,920 gallons of water per year!  While you’re at it, men, turn off the water while you’re shaving as well, or shave while you’re in the shower.

4.   Update your toilet – Until 1992, toilets were allowed to use 3.5 – 5 gallons of water per flush (gpf).  In 1992 regulations were changed to 1.6 gpf, where they still are today.  However, in 2004 the developments of High-Efficiency Toilets (HETs) brought the number down to 1.28 gpf.  This is turning into the new standard and can save you up to 16,500 gallons of water per year.  These toilets are the same price as 1.6 gpf and flush just as well, so there is no downside!

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