As students, our heads are probably full of study schedules, part-time jobs and the weekend’s activities – which is pretty much the norm. However, when was the last time you gave some thought to saving water?
No, saving water won’t get you through your next semester, nor will it help you with your thesis. But it will make a difference in a few years’ time when Cape Town experiences another mind-bending drought! We feel that eco-warriors are made in their youth, and it’s never too early to start good a good habit. Let’s take a quick tour on how to save water while you’re still in varsity.
Learning How to Save Water Starts Now
We all know that the little actions, done by lots of people, make a difference. So, what can you do to make a difference in our water-scarce country?
Reuse Your Towels
Once you’ve showered, hang your towel up to air dry so it can be used the next day. Leaving it in a heap on the floor makes for a damp, smelly towel and an open invitation for mould and lurgies. This way you only have to wash it once or twice a week, instead of every other day.
Turn the Tap Off
When washing your face or cleaning your teeth, turn off the tap. It may only be for a short while, but you’re watching around 16 litres of water swirl away each minute you leave the tap open.
Take a Short Shower
The average shower is around 8.5 minutes, which equates to approximately 65+ litres of water. Even if you’re not paying for it, it’s still a huge waste. A 5-minute shower is all you really need and try keeping a bucket in the shower to use for flushing the toilet or watering plants.
Wash Clothes By Hand
This takes time and effort, we get it. But it uses far less water than a washing machine, especially if you’re not running a full load. If you only have a few items to wash, then do it in a basin by hand and save water and electricity.
Learning how to save water is everyone’s responsibility, and these good habits will benefit you when you leave varsity and have to pay your own way.