When you think "Greening" consider "The Forgotten Factor"

I am seeing lots of articles lately about business efforts to lower energy consumption. Below is my reply to an article posted on the Green, Inc blog for the New York Times.

Across the country we are witnessing sincere efforts to reduce energy consumption from both the consumer and commercial perspective. Mr. Odeh's effort is commendable and deserves recognition.

What about "The Forgotten Factor"; the connection between improved water efficiency and the reduction in energy consumption? Studies have clearly identified this relationship. If you do even a minimal of research, the troubling truth about global fresh water supplies should put water efficiency and water conservation at the forefront of everyone's "greening" efforts. I wonder if Mr. Odeh considered the value of improving water efficiency at his restaurants. No mention therein leads me to believe this is not the case. In most business a practices “greening” is as much about improving the bottom line as as it is about lessening impacts on the environment. As consumers and businesses, our water footprint is a very significant part of our overall carbon footprint.

A Water Efficiency Assessment and ROI Analysis can easily demonstrate that even something as minimal as a plumbing fixture upgrade can produce a substantial reduction in wasted water thereby lowering utility bills, and lessening overall environmental impact. I have witnessed the results. I have seen a $70,000 investment in water efficiency improvements (toilets, showerheads, faucet aerators) at an apartment complex in Charlotte, NC resulting in a reduction in metered water expenses of greater than $10,000 per billing cycle. I am aware of similar projects taking place in Louisville, Pittsburgh, Detroit and South Florida. It makes financial sense and helps substantially lower human impacts on a natural resource that we just can not do without.

When you think "Greening" consider "The Forgotten Factor"
AP
AquaPro@AquaEnvi.org
www.AquaProSolutions.com

"The Forgotten Factor"

As is typically the case, one of our most important "greening" opportunities’ is overlooked or at least goes without mention. I am coining the phenomenon as "the forgotten factor"; the direct relationship between improving water efficiency and reducing energy consumption.
When considering energy efficiency improvements no one seems to employ the very relevant connection between Water Efficiency and Energy Reductions. Studies have been done, the information is clear yet little attention is afforded to the value of "the forgotten factor"; water efficiency. The potential savings of dollars & kilowatts, directly related to improving water efficiency is staggering; and along with that we reduce societal demands on our potable water resources. Improving water efficiency is one of the most important environmental efforts we can employ; just ask any of the communities that are running out of water. When was the last time you worried about turning on a faucet or flushing the toilet? It will likely happen sooner than you think.

AP
www.AquaProSolutions.com