Our Environment

“Water, water every where but not a drop to drink!” You may remember this familiar refrain. True enough, about 80% of the earth is covered by water but we are still plagued with water shortage concerns. Many believe that we have an unlimited supply of water. What they fail to realize is that, although water is a renewable resource, there is still a very big possibility that in the future we will suffer from extreme water shortages.

Ground water and surface water are the two main sources of our drinking water. Through the water cycle these sources renew themselves. But due to the fast population growth, demand for water is increased so that the water resources are not given the chance to replenish before water is again depleted.

Water conservation is a necessary step that will insure that demand is always less that the supply. This basic principle applies to all of the resources that are used by society. If we fail to reduce, replenish, and renew, then there will eventually be nothing left.

So, that being said, here are a few tips that can help you cut your own use of water at home.
Be sure to comment with your own conservation tips as well!:

1. Keep track of your water bill. Try to find ways to reduce it.
2. Fix leaky facet and plumbing fixtures. If this can not be done at once try to catch the drip with a pail. The water saved can be used to water the plants.
3. Adjust the water level in your washing machine if you can not wash full loads. The same thing goes for your dish washer. You will notice a great reduction in your water bill if you practice this tip.
4. Instruct your children to use a glass in brushing their teeth instead of just letting the water flow.
5. Take shorter showers or better yet change your shower heads to low flow. You gain to save about 3 gallons of water if you do so.
6. Use hot water to thaw food. You will consume more water if you let running water to flow over the frozen food. The water used to thaw the food can be used to water the plants.
7. Letting the pots and pans soak overnight would make for easy scouring that won’t need so much water.

You can do your part for water conservation by practising these tips and by encouraging other people to support water conservation programs too.

If you are planning a vacation maybe it's time to think about an ecotourism getaway.

You might ask, "What is ecotourism?" Ecotourism is a form of tourism that involves visiting natural areas for the purpose of learning, studying and participating in activities that do not negatively impact the environment.

Ecotourism gives travelers a chance to participate in conservation or preservation projects. It is good karma (not to mention healthy for the soul). Since vacations generally provide ways to relax and renew the body and mind why not heal the soul, too? An important element in ecotourism is education resulting in increased awareness and concern
for the environment.

When planning your eco vacation you may want to choice your travel provider on the basis of their ecological practices and principles. Read some travel articles, guide books and visit the aforementioned web pages to learn about your destination. This will improve your experience as you will be familiar with the customs and culture and you can blend in with the locals and avoid the stigmatism of a stereotypical tourist. Remember that cultural differences can also include personal space, communication and concepts of time -- should you want to be 5 minutes early or fashionably late.

While on vacation you may want to use local transportation or guides. You may also consider staying away from hotel chains and book a room at a local hotel instead. This not only helps out the local economy it could infuse your visit with the flavor of your destination.

Upon your return from your eco vacation you can distribute your newly found knowledge and what you gained by participating in local activities. Share with your friends and neighbors (No slide shows please!). This could be your opportunity to make a positive impact on the preservation of culture and the environment.