Water

Reduce Consumption

Use water more efficiently in all aspects of work. For example, don’t run the tap for cold water, keep a container in the refrigerator and only run the washing machine/dish washer with a full load.

Fix Leaky Faucets And Toilets

One leaking toilet (i.e. continues to run after it has been flushed) can waste up to 200,000 litres of water in one year - enough to fill a large in-ground swimming pool. It is estimated that 40 % of toilets leak.

Conserve Water In The Washroom

Put a plastic bottle filled with pebbles or sand in the toilet tank to reduce flushing water. Remember take short showers as they use less water than baths!

Never Dump Toxic Materials

Do not pour toxic materials down the drain or sewers. Most storm sewers dump directly into waterways. Many Canadian communities, including Montreal and Victoria, dump sewage directly into waterways. Even when sewage is treated, toxic materials are a severe stress on treatment facilities.

Outdoors

Landscaping

• If the lawn and garden around your facility needs plenty of water, consider alternative plants and ground cover that require less water and, as a result, less attention.
• Keep grass at least two inches long to shade roots and hold moisture.
• Check all outside faucets and sprinkler connections for leaks.
• Limit the watering of your lawn and garden to early morning and early evening hours.
• Set up a cistern to capture water from your roof.

Keep Powerboats Properly Maintained

Keep the engine in good repair to avoid leaking oil, gasoline and solvents, and look for signs of trouble, such as oil slicks on the water surface.

Keep Septic Systems Properly Maintained

Most remote facilities rely on septic systems. Look out for problems, and make sure that your system is cleaned every three years. Do not use hazardous cleaners or dump toxic materials into the system.

Assess Water-Intensive Activities

If your workplace uses water in its production process or for washing goods or equipment, evaluate the process to see if you can adopt more water-efficient technology.

Cleaning-Up Outside.

Use a broom rather than water in a hose to clean driveways, walks and patios.