Normally, we’re not big into doom and gloom here at Green Prophet. Not because we don’t believe that bad things can happen, but rather because we believe that focusing on solutions is usually more helpful. And we’re determined to focus on solutions now, because it’s clear that Israel is running out of water. Fast. And that is enormously scary. The question is, what can the average person do about it?
According to the statistics in the above video (in Hebrew), the average person uses about 30 gallons of water per day. Some 40% of this water is used for the toilet.
See, the flush toilet that we use now was invented by Brits, and I’m guessing that water conservation was not one of their most pressing issues. But the fact is that the toilet uses way more gallons per flush than it actually needs to to get the job done.
So here’s what you do:
Get a bottle and fill it with water. Then shut off the water that leads into the toilet by turning the knob next to the tank. Next step is to flush the toilet, which lets out the water from the tank.
Now take the top off the tank (no tools are necessary!). Put the bottle inside the toilet tank, cover the tank, turn the water back on and you’re set. Now whenever the toilet flushes, it will use at least a quarter gallon less than it usually does–and still get the job done. If you have concerns about this, ask your local handyman or plumber.
It’s a particular shame that toilets use so much water, when it is pretty much the only water we use that can’t be recycled. Water we use to bathe or wash in is called “gray water,” and is usually recyclable for certain uses. But water from the toilet, or “black water,” is gone forever as far as our ability to reuse it is concerned.
Seems like it’s time for a change–and the most effective changes start at home.
For more Green Prophet tips:
Green Prophets Start at Home: The Living Room
Green Prophets Start at Home: The Bedroom
This is a great first step to MAD (making a difference) for anyone when it comes to water conservation. The next step is to look at replacing your toilet cistern’s flush mechanism with a “dual-flush” system. At the same time, also consider replacing your shower head with a water-saving equivalent (low-flow). I can’t unfortunately give any advice as to where these are available in Israel. Perhaps Green Prophet could do a roundup of manufacturers and retail outlets that supply these?
Hi Ilana, great tip, we also live by the slogan “If it’s yellow let it mellow, if it’s brown flush it down!”. There are also the Humanure toilets – dry systems which are making a comeback.
I am also trying to set up a system where my laundry water is saved for flushing the toilet, I heard there is a pump system making the rounds, do you know anything about it?