Waste in the context of our precious water seems distant because of our wet climate with occasional torrential rain causing flash floods. Yet, sometimes, we are faced with 'water, water everywhere, not a drop to spare'. This is simply because water that is suitable for our consumption needs to be treated first, unless we are using it just for washing the car or water the plants.
In other words, just like recycling our garbage, separating the different uses would result in reducing waste due to indiscriminate use of water. We just need some adjustments to be able to save rain water for the purpose of general cleaning, washing the car and watering the plants. What we get from the tap would be restricted to boiling water for consumption, washing vegetables and meat, and any use which requires treated water.
How we use water can make a lot of difference. When we used to have a maid when the children were small, the water bill used to be around Rm50 for two months. Now, with just two senior citizens and occasional visits from children or friends, our bill has been greatly reduced to the minimum charge of Rm6.00 for two months! I would attribute a large part of the difference to the maid having the water hose running when washing things or rinsing the floor. Even having the tap running when cleaning dishes or brushing our teeth makes a significant difference.
From Home Economics (wife used to be one such teacher) tips, I am conscious of clearing the dishes properly, even using tissue to wipe excessive gravy off which saves on cleaning liquid and water for rinsing, as well as not having to wash stained dish cloths. Hot water helps in cleaning oily bowls and plates. Even rinsing, I would arrange in such a way that there are other items below the item being rinsed under the tap!
Some people might laugh at such attention to small details just to save what is deemed as a cheap commodity, as water. This is not a question of affordability which the low cost would attest to, but a question of reducing wastage of a scarce commodity! If everyone of us were to practise some form of conservation of water, then our government's warning of water rationing within the next few years will not become reality.
Please do not give them an excuse to start any mega projects which will benefit only a few and burden the rest of the public.
Just added: From Malaysiakini: Water: Scrap unsustainable mega-projects
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