Water is one of our most precious resources. However, many of us in developed countries from varied socioeconomic backgrounds take water for granted. Environmental activists frequently remind us (even as we sometimes tune them out) that water is not an infinite resource. Should we care?
Well, maybe? Water is a cornerstone for living a healthy green life, and for the time being in this country it is one of the simplest, cost effective ways to live sustainably. However, there is a limited supply to be shared by a world population that has tripled in the last eighty years to almost 7 billion people, a U.S. population that has topped 300 million people, and a state such as Texas that is now filled with 24 million inhabitants.
In our homes, we use water in a variety of ways. Cooking nourishing meals, cleaning with water, and drinking water are all part of our everyday home health habits. How can we live green in ways that complement our current lifestyles?
One method may be through taking advantage of The Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA) WaterSense program that is slated to begin in 2010. In part, the program will be set-up to identify and promote water efficient products that reduce water use, conserve energy, and preserve water resources for future generations.
The U.S. government is set to appropriate over 85 million dollars to this program for fiscal years 2010 through 2013 for products, buildings, landscapes, and services. They have also scheduled an early adopter program with financial incentives for consumer purchase and installation of these goods, which currently includes faucets, point-of-use water devices, reuse and recycling technologies, toilets, and showerheads.
The early adopter program will be considered for fiscal years 2010 through 2013 as well and could stimulate the economy to the tune of half a billion dollars. For this portion of the WaterSense program target populations include general households, low-income households, and first-time homeowners. If it favors its successful, eco-friendly predecessor Energy Star, consumers might be able to receive federal tax credits of up to 30% of the cost for WaterSense products and services.
In the U.S. we consume more water per person per day than in any other country in the world. From the budget conscious penny-pincher to the fashionista and no matter where we live in this country, we can all choose to reduce our consumption. For those who want to be savvy consumers, who contribute to the green movement and reap monetary rewards, be on the lookout for the WaterSense label beginning in 2010. Being eco-friendly can be as simple as appreciating a tall glass of water any day of the week.
Lorraine Lyman's coaching, consulting, and training empowers people to personal excellence and life success in many realms including academics and business. Individuals and groups are inspired to tap into their inner wisdom, gain awareness, take action, and live the life of their dreams.
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