International World Water Day

Happy March 22nd, Selk’fam!

Today is a day marked by both celebration, and ultimately reflection. It’s World Water Day.

We stand with the UN in the belief that water is, and must be viewed, as a basic human right. For those of us in developed countries, we are fortunate to look on water as an easily attainable, almost mundane aspect of our daily lives. We freely drink it, shower with it, water our cute plants with it, and it even powers our water slides in summer. When clean water is constant, that is truly a privilege.

Unfortunately, that unabridged access is not the reality for billions around the world. Our world is facing a devastating water crisis, and while there are essential regulatory and policy-focused changes that must be made, each individual can still be a hero in conservation. Here are a few simple life hacks to become a water-conservation pro!

1. Turn off the Tap: There is absolutely no reason for water to be running when you’re not using it. Remember to turn off the tap when washing dishes, brushing your teeth, cleaning your face, and more.
2. Eat less animal products: We know, we know…. We love a tasty burger as much as the rest of them, but we are trying to eat wiser, and so can you. The production of meat can take a heavy hit on water supply -- it takes 1,799 gallons of water to produce 1 pound of beef. For context, 1 pound of chicken requires 468 gallons, and 1 pound of potatoes requires 119 gallons. Also, as water becomes less accessible, so does food. If you are not ready, or ever willing, to give up meat, try to at least strive for better moderation.
3. Landscaping: We are not crazy cat people, but rather crazy plant people. Can we be plant people, and water savers at the same time? YES! To do both, opt for the plants that require the least amount of water, or are native to your areas natural rainfall. Pro tip: overwatering is one of the leading causes of killing your plant!
4. Dishwasher and Laundry: SURPRISE! We are not asking you to wash your dishes or clothes by hand. Au contraire! Utilize the machines. Your dishwasher and laundry machine are actually far more water efficient than your hands and as we mentioned above, than your tap.
5. Water Bottles: This should be a no brainer. GET RID OF ALL PLASTIC WATER BOTTLES. They’re completely unnecessary. Invest in reusable, invest in improving the world.