Why Waste Water If You Can                      Reuse It?

Indian states like Tamil Nadu, Rajasthan and Gujarat have been under a major threat of water crisis for the past few years. The reason for this could be the lack of a proper monsoon season for three consecutive years, water disputes with other states and a lack in proper management. Freshwater, that we use every day is a non- renewable and irreplaceable resource. However, it can be reused in many ways for conservation. As we look for ways to recharge groundwater or revive our rivers and other water bodies, there are quite a few measures we can take at home to reduce water consumption.

The water that we use in our households turns into either greywater or blackwater. Bathwater, RO filtered water or even the water in our air conditioners are some sources of greywater that are comparatively safer for consumption. Although, the water is unfit for drinking, it can be used for watering plants or cleaning purposes. Using greywater not only helps in reducing our water footprints but also doesn’t add to the prevailing water pollution in the riverine bodies of our country.

Three types of Greywater and their uses:

· Air conditioner water

The air conditioner condensates the humidity in our rooms to water that generally flows out of the outlets through the pipes attached to it. This water can be collected and used for a variety of purposes in our homes as its clean. Although it’s not fit enough for drinking, it can be used for bathing and washing utensils.

· Water filtered out of the RO systems

The RO or any water purifying systems in our house wastes a large amount of water while filtering out germs and chemicals that are present in the water. The water is usually saline in nature but can be used for cleaning purposes or even for washing machines.

· Water flowing out of washing machines

Any sort of cleaning process in the house requires a large amount of water. There have been many technological advances that reduce the consumption of water but only to a certain limit. The water flowing out of washing machines or the sink while we wash utensils or clothes can be used for watering the plants. However, it can be used only if there is no hazardous chemical used in the soaps or detergents we use.

The reuse of greywater can help in reducing our water consumption to unthinkable levels, we just need to be aware of the ways we can use this water. Being mindful of water usage has helped many states and countries like Israel to overcome water crisis.