1 family drains 100,000 gallons water this year

Survey Results: Recycling of 280 gallons greywater wasted per day can save earth form droughts

U.S./Naturalcave/ -- According to the recent survey, a typical American family allows over 100,000 gallons of water to go down the drain, in just one year. Greywater, or the water from our sinks, showers, dishwasher and laundry machines, differs from black water (from toilets) and contains mostly soap residues. This water can easily be recycled into the landscape allowing for an extra water source and source of fertility. Even in the driest regions, greywater recycling can allow you to create an oasis from the water you normally waste.

The United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) estimates that the average American family uses 400 gallons of water per day, around 280 gallons of which is most likely from greywater sources.

• Is it safe for plants?

The soap residues that come with greywater are a healthy and abundant source of phosphates, one of the main nutrients that all plants need. Instead of throwing away a potential source of water and fertilizer for your garden or plants, it makes much more sense to recycle that water into the ecosystem. The water can sustain these plants in times of stress from prolonged droughts and even extend the growing season.

• Is it safe for us?

Greywater most likely contains dirt, hair, food leftovers, soap residues and other household cleaning products that do not pose any sort of significant health risk on their own. It is estimated that there are over eight million grey water systems in the US alone and there has not been one documented case of grey water transmitted illness.

• Greywater recycling methods used

The simpler, the better. A hose or a pipe is connected to sinks, tubs, or washing machines to a small orchard or flower garden around the home.
The families that generate large volumes of greywater, build greywater wetland.