The issue of water conservation is getting a flood of attention in EnergyVibe’s hometown of Charlottesville, VA. As the City of Charlottesville formulates its 50-year Water Supply Plan, one of the key questions is, “What will our water demand be in 50 years?” The answer depends heavily on our assumptions about water conservation. A local group called Citizens for a Sustainable Water Plan held a presentation about how two types of conservation, passive and active, can significantly reduce future water demand despite population growth. The potential drop in water demand could consequently eliminate the need for a new (expensive) 135-foot dam. For more information, visit http://cvillewater.info.

PASSIVE CONSERVATION occurs regardless of behavior because it is accomplished by installing high-efficiency irrigations systems. The federal Energy Policy Act of 1992 set mandatory conservation standards for high efficiency toilets, showerheads and faucets manufactured after 1994. This means that when existing 5 gallons per flush (gpf) fail, they are guaranteed to be replaced by higher efficiency 1.6 gpf (or lower) toilets. On a commercial level, passive conservation can contribute to an even greater reduction in water demand through measures such as water re-use infrastructure or rainwater collection.

ACTIVE CONSERVATION involves behavior-based steps that you and I can take to conserve water beyond the efficiencies of the equipment we use. As part of active conservation, citizens make the choice to irrigate responsibly, shorten your shower time, and turn off the faucet when you are washing your hands. Immediately reporting leaks at work is another form of active conservation.

Pairing passive and active conservation is the most effective way to achieve a dramatic reduction in water demand. Given this local example, Charlottesville’s evaluation of water conservation will directly affect decisions about future infrastructure.

2rw can help with a comprehensive approach to water conservation in the context that is applicable to you. 2rw’s engineers can aid in passive conservation by designing high-efficiency water systems, and EnergyVibe can work with you and your organization to encourage active conservation through behavior change.