Rain Water Harvesting

Millions of people lack access to safe drinking water. Check out water.org for more information.

So many of us take our water for granted. Andrew Brown asks us to consider, "What gets the water to the faucet?"

Many regions import water, which ultimately has global impact. Brown addresses the issue with mindful rain water harvesting techniques.

This beautifully shot short video gives an illustration of his methods:

This is just one way individuals are using innovation to conserve water.

In what ways do you conserve water?

Or in what ways would you like to begin conserving water?

Comments welcome below:

Star Power for Water Power

Off shore drilling poses a serious threat to our water. Who can forget the 2010 Gulf oil spill, which was the worst in US history?

Last week, actress Kate Walsh (Grey's Anatomy and Private Practice), took her celebrity status to Capitol Hill and lobbied for "legislation that would provide subsidies for offshore wind power development".





Here at Portland State University, we have been compiling a list of celebrities who use their star power to do good for the environment. Who would you add to the list?

Feel free to comment below and we will definitely notify you when we feature your favorite sustainable celeb!

Remember, we do not need celebrity status to get involved in cleaning up our oceans. Click here to learn how you can help Oceana with their efforts.

Portland's Fluoride Debate: What Do You Think?

Here in Portland, Oregon, we are about to vote on a critical topic that affects our drinking water. 

Last year, the city council passed a bill to begin fluoridating our city's water. Many residents halted the process and the city council agreed to give our residents the right to vote on the topic.

Measure 26-151 was born and what has ensued, has been a hot debate. 

Fortunately, we live in a democratic society. When we vote on such topics we need to consider how this will affect the majority of our citizens, including our pets.

There are two very passionate sides to the issue:

 Supporters of this measure weigh in here. 

Clean water supporters weigh in here.

What do you think? Will you be voting in May?

Feel free to comment below. Please, use respectful dialogue, all perspectives are welcome.

US Drinking Water Systems get a D+ in Quality

The American Society of Civil Engineers have given American water supply systems a D+ grade. The main gripe the group has is with water mains that are over 100 years old, outliving their useful life, but still in use delivering water to people around the country. While American water systems suffer an estimated 240,000 breaks per year, the group is quick to point out that quality of water is universally high, and outbreaks of disease are rare. The American Water Works Association estimates that a full update of America's water systems would cost $2.1 trillion dollars.

For more information, click here.

Reusable Water Bottles

Whenever I arrive at work, the first thing I do is re-fill my water bottle. Using a re-usable water bottle is an easy way to safe money and lessen our waste contribution. 

Choosing a re-usable water bottle that is the "right fit" for you may sound like an easy task, but becomes a research project when you start considering all of the options.

Here's a list of re-usable water bottle reviews:

http://www.goodhousekeeping.com/product-reviews/eco-friendly-products/reusable-water-bottle-reviews/best-reusable-water-bottles#slide2

Household Cleaning Products That Keep Our Water Supply Clean

 

Many of our household cleaning products are dirtying up our water supply. There are several eco-friendly items already in your home that can be used as effective cleaners.

Try one of these cost effective/readily available products.

http://eartheasy.com/live_nontoxic_solutions.htm 

Giving is a Fun Way to Celebrate Your Birthday!

Just ask this 6 year old, Lory, he raised over $2000 by asking his friends and family to support charity:water in lieu of receiving gifts. Not only does 100% of the profits go straight to the cause but you receive updates on how your gift is used!

This is truly a gift that keeps on giving!