1. Install low-flow fixtures and appliances: Low-flow fixtures and appliances like toilets, showerheads, and faucets use less water and can help save water resources.
2. Use native plants in landscaping: Native plants are adapted to the local climate and require less water to thrive. Planting them around the building can help reduce the amount of water needed for irrigation.
3. Implement rainwater harvesting systems: Collecting and storing rainwater for later use can significantly reduce the demand for municipal water supplies. Rainwater can be used for irrigation, flushing toilets, and other non-potable applications.
4. Install water-efficient irrigation systems: Use irrigation systems that apply water directly to the root zone of plants, reducing water waste due to evaporation or runoff. Install moisture sensors that can detect the soil’s moisture content and adjust the system as needed.
5. Incorporate green roofs and walls: Green roofs help capture rainwater and reduce runoff. They also help reduce the urban heat island effect, which can lower the overall demand for cooling systems. Green walls can also help reduce heat gain and evapotranspiration rates.
6. Use permeable paving materials: Permeable paving materials allow rainwater to infiltrate into the ground, reducing the amount of runoff that enters the stormwater system. This can help reduce erosion and flooding in nearby streams and rivers.
7. Recycle water: On-site wastewater treatment facilities can recycle water from sinks, showers, and other sources for non-potable uses, like irrigation, flushing toilets, and cleaning.
8. Educate occupants: Educate building occupants about water-saving strategies, like turning off faucets while brushing their teeth, taking shorter showers, and reporting leaks immediately. Encourage water-saving behaviors through signage, workshops, and other engagement efforts.
Publication date: