Water may be the most important thing on the planet that we
take for granted. We can enjoy a day at the beach or a run through a sprinkler
in the summer, but we aren't likely to really appreciate all the ways in which
we use and waste water. In a 2011 book by Charles Fishman, the true value of
water is explored, as well as the myriad ways it is being depleted. Many of us
will consider how much water is being wasted by an excessively long shower, but
how many of us think of the amount being wasted by our television? There are
other hidden losses of water; a substantial amount of water is lost through leakage.
According to Fishman, “1 out of 6 gallons of water acquired, treated and pumped
by water utilities in the United States leaks back into the ground before
anyone can use it.” An ignorance to these kinds of factors limits us from taking the appropriate steps to correct them.
The overall message of the book is that water is not
limitless. It isn't a completely bleak story however, Fishman describes water
conservation success stories that make use of more efficient systems and
technology.
“Many
civilizations have been crippled or destroyed by an inability to understand
water or manage it. We have a huge advantage over the generations of people who
have come before us, because we can understand water and we can use it smartly.”
–Charles Fishman
To listen to Fresh Air’s Terry Gross’ interview with Charles
Fishman, go here.
A summary of the book, as well as many links to purchase it
can be found here
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