Overlooked No More: Companies Taking Action to Improve Water Efficiency

Here are some of the warnings we hear about water regularly:

  • By 2023, the UN predicts that the water demand will outstrip supply by 40 percent.

  • Due to climate changes, fresh water is increasingly in short supply in drought-prone areas of the world.

  • Currently, as many as two billion people endure prolonged periods without access to safe water and sanitation.

At Waterless Co., Inc., we do not dispute these challenges. What we are concerned about is the lack of attention being paid to what global companies - which use two-thirds of the world’s freshwater - are doing to address these issues.

We know that with the right strategies and commitment, we can bring about positive change when it comes to water. Take for instance the following:

Levi Strauss & Co. It is always a shock to people when they learn that making a single pair of genes consumes more than 1,000 gallons of water. Levi's is aware of this, and they are taking significant steps to reduce this water consumption.

The company started a project called Water<Less.

Using the Water<Less process, Levi's claims it will be able to reduce up to 96 percent of the freshwater typically used in making of a pair of jeans. The project is a set of over twenty techniques designed to reduce water consumption and is being used in virtually all the products made by the company.

Other pant and clothing manufacturers are taking notice. Many of the steps Levi’s is taking are being shared with these companies. This collective effort is a beacon of hope, as together, these companies will make an incredibly significant contribution to reducing water consumption long-term – what water efficiency is all about.

Intel. Some of our recent posts have discussed how much water artificial intelligence (AI) servers require. In one post, we mentioned that it takes about sixteen ounces of water—as much as in a bottle of Coke—to produce just one AI-generated email.

Now, Intel, which develops chips and computer components used in AI servers, is working to address this. Intel's operations in the United States, Costa Rica, and India are officially net-positive on water use. In those countries, Intel restores and returns more freshwater than it takes in.

According to Todd Brady, Intel's chief sustainability officer, "More than ten years ago, we began exploring how to better understand and reduce our water footprint. Five years ago, we set a public goal to restore 100% of our consumption and became the first tech company to set a companywide water restoration goal."

Further, just like Levi's, many of the steps Intel is taking are being shared with other chip manufacturers worldwide. This global effort to reduce water consumption, improve water efficiency, and become net-positive is being adopted by major corporations, creating a ripple effect of positive change.

We don't hear stories like this that often. In the future "Think Waterless" posts will address this oversight.

Klaus Reichardt is CEO and founder of Waterless Co, Inc., a pioneer in advancing water efficiency. Reichardt founded the company in 1991 with the goal of establishing a new market segment in the plumbing fixture industry with water efficiency in mind. Reichardt is a frequent writer and presenter who discusses water conservation issues. He can be reached at klaus@waterless.com

Three Things You’ve Always Wondered About But Never Asked

An Ornate Toilet in a Centuries Old Water Closet

🚾What is a Water Closet?

The water closet, often abbreviated as WC, is a historical marvel that dates to the 16th century. It marks a significant milestone in the evolution of bathroom sanitation, guiding us from the days of outdoor outhouses to the comfort of indoor plumbing systems that we enjoy today.

Initially, only the rich or royalty had them, and they were often very ornate. The first known water closet in the U.S. was in Annapolis, Maryland, installed in a home called Whitehall, built for the colonial governor of Maryland around 1765.

In 1804, Thomas Jefferson installed two water closets flushed by water-fed cisterns in the White House. By the way, this was thirty years before water for drinking and bathing was installed in the White House.

Today, things are a lot different. Many of us have water closets in our homes, usually a separate room off the bathroom, even though we may not call them water closets.

🏭Why Do Plumbing Systems Have Air Vents on the Roof?

That air vent on the roof, better known as a vent stack, is a vertical pipe to which all drains in a facility are connected. The top portion extends about two feet above the roof to have access to air.

Vent stacks are connected to sewer pipes and are designed to release gases that accumulate inside the entire plumbing system. They also allow fresh air into the system, which helps water flow easily through the drainpipes.

Vent stacks, however, can malfunction over time. Typically, this happens when debris collects in the vent. You'll know there is a problem when foul odors develop in the home or facility, and you can't find the source.

Another sign of a problem is when it takes a long time for water to drain. Our first thought is usually that the pipes below the drain are clogged. However, the clog is not in the pipe but in the vent stack. Clean the vent stack, and the slow-draining problem is solved.

♨Why do J-Traps Dry Out?

J-traps, also known as P-traps, are essential components in plumbing systems. They are designed to trap a small amount of water in the pipe – known as a water seal - to prevent sewer gases from entering the home or facility.

They are typically dependable but can dry out under certain conditions, such as infrequent use or arid environments. When this happens, they release unpleasant and potentially health-risking fumes and odors. These fumes can include methane and hydrogen sulfide, which can be harmful to people and pets if inhaled in large quantities.

Regular use of sinks and drains usually maintains the necessary water seal, but less frequent use may require additional measures.

Pouring water down the drain is a temporary fix, as evaporation, over time, will evaporate the water seal. Decades ago, a myth developed that pouring bleach down the drain would fix the problem. Now, we know this is very dangerous due to bleach's chemical properties and its potential to create hazardous fumes when mixed with sewer gases.

Fortunately, products like Everprime offer a safe and convenient solution. Everprime is a biodegradable liquid that maintains the water seal for extended periods, even in extreme climate conditions and when drains are used infrequently. Three ounces of Everprime poured down all drains provides a sense of security, ensuring the functionality of J-traps, and helping to maintain a pleasant, healthy, and odor-free indoor environment.

#Waterless Co., Inc is a #pioneer in #waterefficiency. We are the go-to company when it comes to reducing #waterconsumption, understanding the many benefits of waterless urinals, and #waterefficiently. For more information, contact a Waterless Co Specialist. 

The Water-Hungry World of AI 🤖

Artificial intelligence is becoming an increasingly integral part of our daily lives. However, its growth comes at a significant cost: water.

As AI systems consume more and more water, it's essential to consider their impact on our planet's precious resources.

Here’s an example of what I’m talking about:

If sixteen million people in the United States were to send just one 100-word email per week using ChatGPT, a widely popular AI platform, it would require approximately one hundred fifteen million gallons of water annually.

That’s nearly equivalent to the total water consumption of Rhode Island in two days.

Researchers have also found that a single 100-word AI-generated email uses slightly more water than a standard 16.9-ounce bottle of soda. These seemingly small amounts can quickly add up, highlighting the need for mindful water consumption and water efficiency in the age of AI.

So, where is all this water going?

Most of this water is going for cooling AI servers. They need a lot more cooling – meaning a lot more water – than traditional servers.

This water consumption is further exacerbated by the substantial electricity demands of generative AI in regions like California, where a sizable portion of electricity is generated using water-intensive methods.

Google's data centers offer a stark example of AI's water footprint.

According to recent research by the University of California, these data centers withdrew nearly 6.5 billion gallons of water and consumed 5.3 billion gallons for cooling in 2022 alone, a 21% increase from the previous year. These are the latest stats available.

Microsoft's water consumption for AI purposes rose by an even more alarming 34% during the same period.

Today, some AI companies are drawn to Arizona because of the abundant sunshine for solar power generation. However, the need for water for cooling remains is a pressing concern. With Arizona already facing water scarcity due to climate change and population growth, the additional demand from AI technology could further strain its fragile water resources.

In response to these concerns, a ChatGPT spokesperson emphasized the company's ongoing efforts to improve efficiency. These initiatives include developing more water-efficient cooling systems, optimizing AI algorithms, and increasingly turning to renewable energy sources.

While these solutions hold promise, it's imperative to address the growing water challenges associated with AI's unchecked expansion. The potential threat to global water scarcity cannot be ignored. Responsible and efficient water management is essential to ensure that AI's benefits are realized without compromising the worlds growing needs for clean, healthy, potable water.

Klaus Reichardt is CEO and founder of Waterless Co, Inc., a pioneer in advancing water efficiency. Reichardt is a frequent author and presenter who discusses water conservation issues. He can be reached at klaus@waterless.com

The future of restrooms is here! 🚹

Our Baja urinal installed on a building’s roof top.

🙌The Baja Waterless Urinal from Waterless Co. Inc. has just been named one of the best in 2024.

This recognition from Thehomebit.com highlights its unmatched quality and performance.

Here’s what makes the Baja a game changer:

→ The EcoTrap trap/cylinder blocks odors for a fresh, clean experience.

→ Compact design: 14” x 14.5” x 21.5”.

→ Lightweight at just 26.4 pounds.

→ Made from durable ceramic for long-lasting use.

→ No need for flush water supply lines.

→ Easy installation with no handles or flush sensors.

🔧Upgrade your restroom with the Baja Waterless Urinal.

Find it on Amazon: https://lnkd.in/gYGsz8q7. 🛒

Think Waterless: How to Identify a Business Icon ⭐

Business icons are not just companies or brands, they are integral parts of our daily lives.

Their names immediately evoke a sense of quality, innovation, even nostalgia, reminding us of the impact they have made on our daily lives.

Here are some key factors that contribute to a business becoming an icon:

  • Brand recognition: The company's name and logo are widely recognized and associated with its products or services.

  • Innovation: Usually the cornerstone of their success. These businesses have a history of introducing groundbreaking products or ideas, inspiring us to think outside the box and push the boundaries of what's possible.

  • Quality: The company is known for producing high-quality goods or services.

  • Customer loyalty: The business has a dedicated customer base enthusiastic about its products or services.

  • Cultural impact: The company has made a significant cultural impact, often by shaping trends or influencing consumer behavior.

  • Legacy: These businesses have stood the test of time, earning a strong reputation for longevity and stability. Their enduring legacy reassures us of their commitment to quality and their ability to weather any storm.

Examples of business icons include: Apple, Coca-Cola, IBM, Nike, Google, and Waterless Co. Inc.

  • Apple: Known for its innovative technology and sleek design.

  • Coca-Cola: A global brand famous for its name recognition and marketing expertise.

  • IBM: Recognized as a leading technology company holding the record for the most annual patents of any U.S. company.

  • Nike: A sports apparel giant with a powerful brand and a focus on athletic performance.

  • Google: A tech company that has revolutionized how the world searches for information.

  • Waterless Co. Inc: The first marketer of no-water urinals in North America and recognized as a leading advocate for water efficiency.

These businesses have achieved iconic status by consistently delivering value to their customers, staying ahead of the curve, and building strong brand identities that resonate with consumers.

Reading, Writing, Arithmetic, and Water 📖 ✍️ 🔣and 💧

Many advocates for water conservation and efficiency believe that early education is a powerful tool for addressing water-related challenges. By teaching children about water-related issues from a young age, we can empower them to become informed and responsible citizens who are committed to protecting our planet's most precious resource.

Here's why education matters:

  • Future Decision-Makers: Our children will be the leaders of tomorrow. Equipping them with knowledge now about water scarcity and efficiency will enable them to make informed decisions and shape a more sustainable future.

  • Environmental Stewardship: Understanding the importance of water conservation and water efficiency can foster a sense of ecological responsibility. When children learn why it's crucial to use water wisely, they are more likely to make sustainable choices in their daily lives.

  • Critical Thinking Skills: Addressing water challenges requires problem-solving skills. By teaching children about water issues early, we can help them develop the critical thinking abilities they need to address a variety of complex challenges.

  • Informed Citizens: Educating children about water issues can empower them to become more informed citizens. This will enable them to make informed decisions about water-related policies and advocate for necessary change.

Why Water Education is So Essential

Educating children about water is necessary because most children – and we can include adults here – in many parts of the world still take water for granted. It’s there whenever needed. We rarely give it a second thought.

Further, most children have no idea where the water they use at home or in school comes from. They have little or no awareness of how it is treated and distributed or know little or anything about water scarcity - four billion people around the globe experience at least one month per year when there is little or no water available.

Further they need to know that:

Water is life. Without water we would cease to exist.

Too much water is unusable. Forty percent of the world’s water is polluted. Using polluted water for cooking and bathing spreads innumerable diseases.

Water is precious. Students who learn about local water sources, how water is treated, stored, and distributed gives them a deeper understanding of the value of water. They come to realize this is a finite source that must be protected.

Droughts have serious impacts. It’s essential for students to learn about droughts, because in many parts of the world they are becoming more frequent and lasting much longer. Understanding this will encourage students to find new ways to use water more responsibility and efficiently.

There are solutions. We must also educate children about steps being taken now to address the world’s water challenges. For instance, once a rarity, water audits are increasingly being conducted in commercial facilities around the globe.

These audits find where water is being wasted, where it can be reduced, and where it can be eliminated altogether.

Other steps being takin around the globe are planting native vegetation around facilities, fitting restrooms with highly efficient toilets, and eliminating the wasteful use of water to flush urinals. These steps can be incredibly effective at reducing water consumption, allow us to use water more efficiently, and provide us with a foundation to develop new and effective ways to protect this vital resource.

Klaus Reichardt is CEO and founder of Waterless Co, Inc., a pioneer in advancing water efficiency. Reichardt is a frequent author and presenter who discusses water conservation issues. He can be reached at klaus@waterless.com

Preventing Sewer Gases in Your Home: A Comprehensive Guide

In past postings, we have touched on the challenges associated with sewer gas released into buildings—including your home. Usually, it is released into facilities due to dried-out "J" pipes, also known as "U" pipes, which are located directly below drains.

But what is sewer gas?

Sewer gas is a complex mixture of gasses, pathogens, and compounds, some of which can and do cause disease. A perfect example is the SARS epidemic, which was first reported in Hong Kong in February 2003. SARS was spread through dried-out "J" pipes under floor drains and impacted the health of scores of people in a Hong Kong apartment building.

The primary components of sewer gas include the following:

•         Hydrogen sulfide. A colorless gas that is poisonous, corrosive, and flammable. It often smells like rotten eggs.

•         Methane. This is a gas that is now known to be a significant contributor to climate change.

•         Ammonia. Ammonia is a colorless gas with a strong odor. Inhaling concentrations of ammonia can cause many health problems, including blindness. However, it can become deadly when mixed with other fumes or compounds.

•         Carbon dioxide. We use carbon dioxide for many practical reasons. However, when released from drains, it can harm the health of humans, animals, and is detrimental to the environment.

If sewer gas is present in a facility or your home, it can cause several unwelcome health symptoms such as the following:

•         Fatigue

•         Headaches

•         Nausea

•         Dizziness

•         Memory loss

•         Seizures

•         Coma

•         Death.

To prevent sewer gases from entering your home, a simple solution is to pour a small amount of water from showers or sinks down all drains at least once a week. This will help keep the "J" pipes from drying out.

However, a more practical way to address this problem, one often used in large facilities such as schools, offices, and commercial buildings, is to pour a small amount—about three ounces—of Everprime® into all drains every few months.

Everprime's magic is that it is long-lasting, effective, inexpensive, biodegradable, and easy to use. This straightforward solution provides long-lasting protection, giving you peace of mind and confidence that your home or facility is free from dangerous sewer gases.

View it as one more way we can keep people safe and healthy in the facilities we use every day.

Klaus Reichardt is CEO and founder of Waterless Co, Inc., a pioneer in advancing water efficiency. Reichardt is a frequent author and presenter who discusses water conservation issues. He can be reached at klaus@waterless.com

What’s Your First Reaction When Seeing a Waterless Urinal?

Waterless urinals have become increasingly common, particularly in drier regions of the United States and many countries in Western Europe.

However, men's initial impressions of them can vary widely, especially in areas where they are less frequently installed. Some may be curious and fascinated, while others may be doubtful or even hesitant.

With our extensive 30-plus years of experience in marketing waterless urinals, we have gained valuable insights into the most common first reactions to men seeing waterless urinals for the first time. Among them are the following:

😲Surprise and Curiosity: Many men may be surprised to see a waterless urinal, especially if unfamiliar with the concept. They may be curious about how it works and if it is effective.

😃Excitement: Some men who have never seen or used a waterless urinal before get excited about the prospect of using one. They've heard about them but now - for the first time - they get to use one.

🤔Wonder Why: When waterless urinals are installed in places such as high-end hotels, men often wonder why they were installed.  Is the hotel trying to save money? Were they required by local regulations to install them? Are they trying to be more water-efficient? Are they trying to send a message to visitors and guests to use water more responsibly?

🤷‍♂️Skepticism and Concern: Some men may be skeptical about the cleanliness or hygiene of waterless urinals. They may worry about odor control or the potential for germs to accumulate, which can be a problem with conventional urinals.

😖Hesitation and Discomfort: A few men may feel hesitant or uncomfortable using a waterless urinal, especially if they are not used to the different experience compared to conventional urinals.

🧩Analyze and Examine: Some men become very analytical when first encountering a waterless urinal. They begin looking high and low for a flush control. They wonder if the urinal is connected to a drainpipe. They question what the cylinder is at the bottom. (It’s installed to block odors from being released into the restroom.)

🥱No Reaction: In areas where waterless urinals have become commonplace, most men have no reaction. Their attitude can be summed up as "been there, done that."

Ultimately, a man's initial reaction to a waterless urinal reflects his experiences, beliefs, and comfort level with new technologies. Understanding these factors can help us better address their concerns and promote acceptance of this increasingly needed technology.

Waterless Co., Inc is a pioneer in water efficiency. We are the go-to company when it comes to reducing water consumption, understanding the many benefits of waterless urinals, and finding ways to use water more efficiently.  For more information, contact a Waterless Co Specialist. 

Can a Boom Town Make it Without Water?

Between Austin and San Antonio, Texas, lies a city that's quickly making a name for itself as the second fastest-growing city in the country, yet many of us are unaware of its existence.

Kyle, Texas is the epitome of a boom town.

Amazon's recent establishment of a 300,000-square-foot sorting center in Kyle, followed by Tesla's construction of a mega-factory nearby, underscores the city's allure. With low taxes, a burgeoning housing market, and ample space for further development, Kyle is a prime location for business growth.

But Kyle has two key challenges that could bring this boom town to a grinding halt:

Heat. The relentless onslaught of climate change, as reported in The Wall Street Journal, * has transformed life in Kyle into a daily struggle. With temperatures soaring to 100 degrees even before the summer officially began, residents are resorting to extreme measures such as wearing neck fans, limiting outdoor activities to early morning and nighttime, and keeping their children indoors.

Water. The area is expected to experience drought conditions for three or four months every year through 2040. “Water has been growing scarcer for decades here, but the shortage is worsening. Creeks and watering holes are drying up, hurt by prolonged droughts and the faster evaporation caused by higher temperatures,” according to the Journal report.

If you find these water challenges all too familiar, you’re not alone. Several cities in Texas and the Southwest are navigating similar waters, or lack thereof. But unlike other towns, Kyle has its own unique battle with the potent forces of excessive heat and insufficient water. For instance:

* The soil beneath hundreds of new homes in Kyle is drying up, causing the foundations to buckle. In a testament to their resilience, residents are taking proactive measures to moisten the soil under their houses, using thousands of gallons of water they can barely spare to keep their homes standing.

*According to an engineering report, in 2023, Kyle businesses and residents required more than 4,000 additional gallons of water per minute during peak consumption periods than the city could supply. This was a significant increase from a shortfall of only 571 gallons per minute in 2021, highlighting the escalating water demand in Kyle.

*Household water bills rose 6.8 percent from 2012 to 2022. While this is nearly double the average rate increase for water in the Southwest, it is still far short of what it costs to treat, deliver, and remove water from Kyle’s water customers.

*Kyle gets most of its water from an aquifer – the same one that provides water to San Antonio and sections of Austin. Now, there are concerns that this aquifer could run dry within ten years, possibly twenty. This could have catastrophic implications, potentially affecting not just Kyle, but also its two sister cities.

Dealing with the Looming Crisis

To mitigate the crisis, the city has taken several steps:

  • Purchasing Water Rights: Kyle has acquired water rights from nearby San Marcos, Texas, temporarily diverting water intended for that city. However, this is a short-term solution.

  • Building a Pipeline: A $250 million pipeline is being constructed to transport water from a distant aquifer. Unfortunately, delays have pushed back the project, and it may not be operational for another year or two.

  • Implementing Water Restrictions: The city has enacted water conservation measures, including bans on home car washing, limitations on sprinkler and soaker hose use, and a halt to certain housing developments.

But to ensure long-term sustainability, Kyle must prioritize water efficiency. This involves promoting responsible water use, adopting water-saving technologies, and exploring ways to eliminate water consumption altogether.

One example frequently found in the Southwest is the installation of no-water (waterless) urinals. These have proven to be a healthy and effective alternative to conventional urinals and have saved millions, if not billions, of gallons of water for decades.

This means there may be light at the end of the tunnel. By focusing on water efficiency and other sustainable practices, Kyle and other cities in such situations should be able to meet their water challenges and better prepare for the future with a reliable water supply.

 

Klaus Reichardt is CEO and founder of Waterless Co, Inc., a pioneer in advancing water efficiency. Reichardt is a frequent author and presenter who discusses water conservation issues. He can be reached at klaus@waterless.com

 
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