Water is an essential resource for life. However, although three-quarters of the Earth is covered with water, less than 3% of that water is drinkable. Industrial waste, fertilizers, organic waste and substances such as oil, are reducing by leaps and bounds the amount of water suitable for consumption. Added to this are desertification and severe droughts that plague some areas of the planet.
As you can see, that 3% speaks for itself about the need to take care of and make the most of that precious and necessary asset. For this reason, the United Nations (UN) has established the March 22, as World Water Day. A day to reflect and promote responsible consumption.
But it is not only organizations and governments that must take action regarding water conservation. Each and every one of us can incorporate into our daily lives small initiatives that contribute to the responsible consumption of water. That's why it's so important educate our children from a very young age, on the importance of water and the need to preserve it.
How to teach our children to use water responsibly
Our children are our mirror, therefore it is essential that we start by leading by example and implement a series of sustainable habits. If we do it together, it will be easier and more fun for everyone.
Use the taps properly
Many times, we let the water run while we wash our hands, brush our teeth, or shower. That is why children must be reminded of the importance of closing the taps while we carry out these actions and also that they notify us if there is a tap that leaks or does not close properly. You will be surprised how much water is saved.
Change the daily bath for the shower
Did you know you can save up to 4000 liters of water per month just by showering instead of bathing? The bathroom consumes much more water than the shower. By this I do not mean that you cannot afford to take a bath, but if you reduce the number of weekly baths and change them for showers, the planet will thank you.
Use the toilet correctly
Teach your children that the toilet is not a garbage container, so they should never use it to throw papers, wipes or swabs out of the ears. If you also have a double cistern, show them when to use the large or small button.
Reuse water
There are many options for reusing water. From the water used to cook vegetables, the one that the air conditioning expels or the one that comes out of the tap before the water heats up. The water can be reused for watering pots, scrubbing the floor or cleaning the car. And what about rainwater? If the day turns gray, take the opportunity to put a few buckets and collect all the water you can.
Take advantage of space in the dishwasher and washing machine
Before putting the dishwasher or washing machine, we must make sure they are full. In this way we will reduce the number of uses and save water and energy.
Activities to educate your children about the responsible consumption of water
In addition to incorporating all the above habits into our daily lives, we can do some with our children activities that help them understand and become aware of the importance of saving water. For example, make a mini home garden, a list with actions that you think can help to conserve water, audiovisual resources, recreate the water cycle …… The possibilities are many, surely you can think of many more.
Here are some tips and tricks for your children to incorporate into their daily lives and learn to appreciate every drop of water we consume. But don't forget that the best lesson is your daily example.
Happy Water Day!