Different models of washing machines can vary greatly in energy use, water use and operating costs.

When buying a new washing machine:

• Buy a front loader if you can. Front loaders are usually more water efficient and energy efficient than top loaders and use less detergent.
• Choose a size that matches your needs. You might not always need to do large washes, so look for a model that can wash smaller and larger loads.
• Look for a model that has separate hot and cold water connections, or that uses a cold water connection and internal water heater.
• Look for a model with a cold water cycle and wash with cold water whenever possible.
• Look for a model that has an economy cycle, auto load sensing and high spin speed to help prevent unnecessary energy and water use.
• Use the Energy Rating website to compare different washing models.
• Use the WELS water rating website to compare the water efficiency of washing machines.

Source: Living Greener (Australian Government)

For your existing washing machines…

Wash full loads

40^oC cotton washes are designed to take a full drum’s worth of laundry, so always try to wash the maximum amount in each load to get the most value from the water and energy you’re using.

If you find you’re not able to fill the drum of your 8kg washing machine on a regular basis, it might be worth considering a washing machine with a smaller drum size.

Avoid using extra rinse

If you have very sensitive skin you may find it necessary to use the extra-rinse function on your washing machine to remove more detergent from laundered clothes. But try not to use this function unless you really need to, as it’s another water waster.

Source: Which? Reviews

Environmentally friendly washing powder

Washing clothes is a mundane human activity that can consume large amounts of good water.  It also has the potential to pollute the environment when harsh detergents are used.  Clean clothes are necessary to maintain human health but we can reduce or recycle the water we use for this process.  A previous post examined a new ‘waterless’ washing machine; these will become available in the near future.  If you are in the market for a new conventional washing machine, try to choose a model that is both energy- and water efficient; an average machine uses about 10 litres of water per kilogram of clothing.  There are still many well-known makes & models that consume up to 30 litres water per kilogram! The water efficiency of your existing washing machine can be improved by following the above tips.  To reduce your environmental footprint, use phosphate-free laundry detergents such as Eco-Soft (similar in price to equivalent conventional washing powders).  Other environmentally friendly cleaning products such as from the Enchantrix product range are recommended. The above products are readily available from most supermarkets around South Africa, even in White River.  Once you have implemented these small changes, you can further reduce your water consumption by re-using grey water from your washing machine (and kitchen, bathroom basins, shower & bath) to irrigate your garden.  Water Rhapsody grey water systems recycle water which would normally be flushed down the drain, putting unnecessary pressure on our sewage plants. See our grey water frequently asked questions for further information.

Over 500 washing machines are compared in a recent independent water efficiency rating; have a look before you buy a new one.

YOU can play an important part in saving water by using these water saving tips in your home:

Saving Water Indoors:

1. Never pour water down the drain when there may be another use for it such as watering a plant or garden, or for cleaning.

2. Verify that your home is leak free. Many homes have hidden water leaks. Read your water meter before and after a two-hour period when no water is being used. If the meter does not read exactly the same, there is a leak.

3. Repair dripping faucets by replacing washers. If your faucet is dripping at a rate of one drop per second, you can expect to waste 2,700 gallons per year. This adds to the cost of water and sewer utilities, or can strain your septic system.

4. Check for toilet tank leaks by adding food coloring to the tank. If the toilet is leaking, color will appear in the toilet bowl within 30 minutes. Check the toilet for worn out, corroded or bent parts. Most replacement parts are inexpensive, readily available and easily installed. (Flush as soon as test is done, since food coloring may stain tank.)

5. If the toilet handle frequently sticks in the flush position letting water run constantly, replace or adjust it.

6. Place a bucket in the shower to catch excess water and use this to water plants. The same technique can be used when washing dishes or vegetables in the sink.

7. In the shower, turn water on to get wet; turn off to lather up; then turn back on to rinse off. Repeat when washing your hair.

8. Install a toilet dam or displacement device such as a bag or bottle ['toilet hippo'] to cut down on the amount of water needed for each flush. Be sure installation does not interfere with the operating parts.

9. Insulate your water pipes. You’ll get hot water faster and avoid wasting water while it heats up.
10. Store drinking water in the refrigerator. Don’t let the tap run while you are waiting for cool water to flow.

11. Do not use running water to thaw meat or other frozen foods. Defrost food overnight in the refrigerator or use the defrost setting on your microwave.

12. Kitchen sink disposals require lots of water to operate properly. Start a compost pile as an alternate method of disposing of food waste instead of using a garbage disposal. Garbage disposals also can add 50 percent to the volume of solids in a septic tank, which can lead to malfunctions and maintenance problems.

13. Consider installing an instant water heater on your kitchen sink so you don’t have to let the water run while it heats up. This will reduce water heating costs for your household.

14. When washing dishes by hand, fill one sink or basin with soapy water. Quickly rinse under a slow-moving stream from the faucet.

15. Never install a water-to-air heat pump or air-conditioning system. Newer air-to-air models are just as efficient and do not waste water.

16. Don’t let water run while shaving or washing your face. Brush your teeth first while waiting for water to get hot, then wash or shave after filling the basin.

17. Install water softening systems only when necessary. Save water and salt by running the minimum amount of regenerations necessary to maintain water softness. Turn softeners off while on vacation.

18. If you have a well at home, check your pump periodically. Listen to hear if the pump kicks on and off while water is not being used. If it does, you have a leak.

19. Avoid flushing the toilet unnecessarily. Dispose of tissues, insects and other similar waste in the trash rather than the toilet.

Saving Water Outdoors

20. Don’t overwater your lawn. As a general rule, lawns only need watering every five to seven days in the summer and every 10 to 14 days in the winter. A hearty rain eliminates the need for watering for up to two weeks. Buy a rain gauge and use it to determine how much rain your yard has received. Most of the year, lawns only need one inch of water per week.

21. Plant it smart. Drought efficient landscaping is a great way to design, install and maintain both your plants and irrigation system. More importantly, it will save time, money and water.

22. Water lawns during the early morning hours when temperatures and wind speed are the lowest. This reduces losses from evaporation.

23. Don’t allow sprinklers to water your street, driveway or sidewalk. Position them so water lands on the lawn and shrubs… not the paved areas.

24. Install irrigation devices that are the most water efficient for each use. Micro and drip irrigation and soaker hoses are examples of water efficient irrigation methods [and install gray water irrigation systems].

25. Check sprinkler systems and timing devices regularly to be sure they operate properly.

26. Raise the lawn mower blade to at least three inches or to its highest level. A higher cut encourages grass roots to grow deeper, shades the root system and holds soil moisture better than a closely-clipped lawn.

27. Avoid over fertilizing your lawn. Fertilizer applications increase the need for water. Apply fertilizers which contain slow-release, water-insoluble forms of nitrogen.

28. Use mulch to retain moisture in the soil. Mulch also helps control weeds that compete with landscape plants for water.

29. Plant native and/or drought-tolerant grasses, ground covers, shrubs and trees. Once established, they do not need water as frequently and usually will survive a dry period without watering. Group plants together based on similar water needs.

30. Avoid the installation of ornamental water features (such as fountains) unless the water is recycled.

31. Do not leave sprinklers or hoses unattended. A garden hose can pour out 600 gallons or more in only a few hours. Use a kitchen timer to remind yourself to turn sprinklers off.

32. Avoid purchasing recreational water toys which require a constant stream of water.

33. Consider using a commercial car wash that recycles water. If you wash your own car, park on the grass and use a hose with an automatic shut-off nozzle.

34. Use a shut-off nozzle on your hose which can be adjusted down to a fine spray so that water flows only as needed. When finished, turn it off at the faucet instead of at the nozzle to avoid leaks. Check hose connectors to make sure plastic or rubber washers are in place. Washers prevent leaks.

35. If you have a swimming pool, consider a new water-saving pool filter. A single backflushing with a traditional filter uses 180 to 250 gallons of water.

General Water Saving Tips:

36. Get involved in water management issues. Voice your questions and concerns at public meetings conducted by your local government or water management district.

37. Be aware of and follow all water conservation and water shortage rules in effect in your community. Don’t assume — even if you get your water from a private well — that you need not observe good water use rules. Every drop counts.

38. Encourage your employer to promote water conservation in the workplace. Suggest that water conservation be put in employee orientation and training programs.

39. Patronize businesses which practice and promote water conservation, such as restaurants that only serve water upon request.

40. Report all significant water losses (broken pipes, open hydrants, errant sprinklers, abandoned free-flowing wells, etc.) to the property owner, local authorities or your water agency.

41. Encourage your school system and local government to help develop and promote a water conservation ethic among children and adults.

42. Support projects that will lead to an increased use of reclaimed waste water for irrigation and other uses.

43. Support efforts and programs that create a concern for water conservation among tourists and visitors to our state. Make sure your visitors understand the need for, and benefits of, water conservation.

44. Encourage your friends and neighbors to be part of a water-conscious community. Promote water conservation in community newsletters, on bulletin boards and by example. Encourage your friends, neighbors and co-workers to “do their part.”

45. Conserve water because it is the right thing to do. Don’t waste water just because someone else is footing the bill, such as when you are staying at a hotel.

Source: Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality

Water Rhapsody Mpumalanga encourages water-saving habits and sustainable living.  To further your water conservation efforts, consider installing water-saving devices.  Our WWF Award-winning water conservation product list consists of rainwater harvesting systems, grey water systems (4 different greywater systems to choose from), water-saving toilet flush mechanisms and swimming pool backwash water recycling systems (pool backwash water is reused- saving substantial amounts of water and preventing chlorinated water from entering the environment.  We are also authorised JoJo Water Tanks dealers and Yes Solar distributors (solar water heating systems, including high quality Solsquare solar geysers).  Contact us for a free quote today!

Environmental consultants (L-R: Madyo Couto, Flip Nel, Alistair Haig) on Sasol Natural Gas Pipeline, Mozambique with translocated Baobab tree.

South Africa’s new environmental impact assessment (EIA) regulations came into effect on Monday, which the Department of Environmental Affairs (DEA) said started the official implementation process of a new regime aimed at improving the efficiency and effectiveness of EIAs.

The National Environmental Management Act (Nema) EIA 2010 regulations and the listing notices thereto replaced the Nema EIA regulations of 2006 and its associated listing notices.

The revised regulations were said to be the result of a consultation process and were published by Minister of Water and Environmental Affairs Buyelwa Sonjica in Government Gazette 33306 of June 18, 2010.

The DEA said that the new regulations introduced an approach where impacts associated with the sensitivity of the receiving environment are treated with more care – this was achieved through the introduction of a Listing Notice dedicated to activities planned for predefined sensitive areas.

The lists of activities requiring environmental authorisation prior to starting have also been revised. This was a major focus of the amendment process as the EIA system was overburdened by large numbers of applications associated with insignificant activities.

The comprehensive, and often expensive scoping process and environmental impact report (EIR) was in some instances unjustifiably required for activities for which the impacts were known and thereby potential entrepreneurs could be excluded from the economy, said the DEA, and some critical activities requiring EIAs were omitted.

In terms of timeframes for handling EIAs, there was previously no consequence for the authority when it did not meet the regulatory time frames – under the new regulations it was compelled to reach a decision on the information it has after a reasonable prescribed extension to the regulated time frames have lapsed.

It was emphasised that the regulated time frames have not been extended and it would be indicated that the time frame has not been met even if the decision is forthcoming in the extension automatically obtained.

In terms of public consultation, amendments have been effected to ensure a fair process. For example, the period from December 15 to January 2, has been excluded from public consultation processes and in the counting of days for both decisions and lodging of appeals.

The amendments to the regulations could be accessed on the Department’s website.

EIAs were aimed at identifying, assessing and investigating potential environmental impacts both positive and negative associated with certain activities and developments.

Source: Engineering News

The streamlining and improvements in the EIA process will be welcomed by developers and environmental practitioners alike.  As an environmental consultant myself, I know how frustrating it can be for all parties when hitches on the government’s side result in unacceptable delays.  There were many parts of the 2006 NEMA regulations that were convoluted and redundant.  There is also no point in having EIA regulations that government officials have difficulty understanding and interpreting, let alone developers! Development is inevitable and therefore we should strive to minimize and mitigate our impacts as much as possible.  One way of mitigating environmental impact is to use water sparingly and recycle it.  Water Rhapsody supplies and installs rainwater systems and grey water systems as well as solar geysers (Yes Solar).  We provide homeowners and large businesses with a free quote and assessment and we are backed with 16 years in the industry.  Contact us for a free quote now!

]]> http://www.rainharvest.co.za/2010/08/new-eia-regulations-now-in-effect-in-south-africa/feed/ 1 http://www.rainharvest.co.za/2010/07/recycling-vs-reusing-is-there-a-difference/ http://www.rainharvest.co.za/2010/07/recycling-vs-reusing-is-there-a-difference/#comments Thu, 29 Jul 2010 17:50:20 +0000 admin http://www.rainharvest.co.za/?p=2463 Tweet

As the world becomes more environmentally aware, recycling & reusing energy, water and other natural and man-made resources is becoming more commonplace.  What is the difference between reusing and recycling something? The two terms are often used interchangeably but in some cases, they are really quite different.

The Concise Oxford English Dictionary defines recycle as v. 1 convert (waste) into reusable material, use again. 2 return (material) to a previous stage in a cyclic process and reuse as v. use again or more than once, n. the action of using something again.

Both recycling and reusing materials are important, environmentally friendly actions.  However, if something can be reused as well as recycled, it can be better to reuse it rather than recycle it.  The reason being that reuse implies less processing and thus less energy consumption than recycling.  During the recycling process, a material is usually broken down into something that can be reformed and made almost from scratch.  This implies a manufacturing process that could, indirectly or directly, cause harm to the environment (e.g. use of chemicals and polluting by-products) in addition to energy consumption, water consumption and carbon emissions.  An example is where glass bottles are either returnable (reused) or are non-returnable but can be recycled (glass sorted by colour, crushed, impurities removed, heated & melted then reformed and shaped into glass bottles or other glass products).  So remember this when purchase you next lot of beverages (see Eco-Friendly Drinking).

Here’s an example of one company’s glass recycling process:

Glass recycling is the process of turning waste glass into usable products. Depending upon the end use this commonly includes separating it different colors. Glass normally comes in a number of colours. The major types are: – Flint glass (clear glass) – Green glass – Brown-amber glass

Glass collection points are very common near shopping centers, at civic amenity sites and in local neighborhoods. They commonly stand besides collection points for other recyclable waste like paper, metals and plastic bottles. Local, municipal waste collectors usually have one central point for all types of waste in which large glass containers are located.

Most collection points have separate bins for clear, green and amber/brown glass. Glass reprocessors require separation by colour as the different colours of glass are usually chemically incompatible. Heat-resistant glass like Pyrex or borosilicate glass should not be disposed of in the glass container as even a single piece of such material will alter the viscosity of the fluid in the furnace at remelt.

Glass is an ideal material for recycling and where it is used for new glass container manufacture it is virtually infinitely recyclable. The use of recycled glass in new container, brick and ceramic manufacture conserves raw materials, reduces energy consumption and helps nations meet their energy efficiency obligations under the Kyoto Protocol, and reduces the volume of waste sent to landfill.

Secondary uses for recycled glass:
In the United Kingdom the container industry cannot consume all of the recycled container glass that will become available over the coming years, mainly due to the colour imbalance between that which is manufactured and that which is consumed. The resulting surplus of green glass from imported bottles containing red wine may be exported to producing countries, or used locally in the growing diversity of secondary end uses for recycled glass.

Secondary markets for glass recycling may include: * Glass in ceramic sanitary ware production * Glass as a flux agent in brick manufacture * Glass in sports turf and related applications (e.g. top dressing, root zone) material or golf bunker sand * Glass as water filtration media * Glass as an abrasive

Mixed glass waste streams can also be recycled and converted into an aggregate. Mixed waste streams may be collected from materials recovery facilities or mechanical biological treatment systems. Some facilities can sort out mixed waste streams into different colours using electro-optical sorting units.

Source: youtube

When it comes to precious resources like water, we must recycle and reuse where appropriate.   The difference between recycling and reusing water can become a little blurred. Collecting rainwater off your roof is in effect ‘new’ water that has been through the water cycle.  Rain water that’s used for household purposes can and should be reused (in the form of greywater) for garden irrigation or for flushing toilets.  Greywater (and even black water – sewerage) can be recycled by a series of processes to render potable drinking water.

Water Rhapsody specializes in water conservation systems that include water collection, water reuse & recycling systems and water saving devices (i.e. where less water is used to achieve the same goal).  We supply and install water conservation products that have been thoroughly tested and are environmentally sound.  We also install high quality water tanks and are official JoJo water tank dealers in Mpumalanga and Limpopo.  Our qualified consultants are trained to assess your water conservation requirements and supply you with the most suitable solution.  Contact us for free quote!

Few people realize that washing our cars in our driveways is one of the most environmentally un-friendly chores we can do around the house. Unlike household waste water that enters sewers or septic systems and undergoes treatment before it is discharged into the environment, what runs off from your car goes right into storm drains — and eventually into rivers, streams, creeks and wetlands where it poisons aquatic life and wreaks other ecosystem havoc. After all, that water is loaded with a witch’s brew of gasoline, oil and residues from exhaust fumes — as well as the harsh detergents being used for the washing itself.

Commercial Car Washes Treat Waste Water
On the other hand, federal laws in both the U.S. and Canada require commercial carwash facilities to drain their wastewater into sewer systems, so it gets treated before it is discharged back into the great outdoors. And commercial car washes use computer controlled systems and high-pressure nozzles and pumps that minimize water usage. Many also recycle and re-use the rinse water.

The International Carwash Association, an industry group representing commercial car wash companies, reports that automatic car washes use less than half the water of even the most careful home car washer. According to one report, washing a car at home typically uses between 80 and 140 gallons of water, while a commercial car wash averages less than 45 gallons per car.

Think Green When Washing Your Car
If you must wash your car at home, choose a biodegradable soap specifically formulated for automotive parts, such as Simple Green’s Car Wash or Gliptone’s Wash ‘n Glow. Or you can make your own biodegradable car wash by mixing one cup of liquid dishwashing detergent and 3/4 cup of powdered laundry detergent (each should be chlorine- and phosphate-free and non-petroleum-based) with three gallons of water. This concentrate can then be used sparingly with water over exterior car surfaces.

Even when using green-friendly cleaners, it is better to avoid the driveway and instead wash your car on your lawn or over dirt so that the toxic waste water can be absorbed and neutralized in soil instead of flowing directly into storm drains or open water bodies. Also, try to sop up or disperse those sudsy puddles that remain after you’re done. They contain toxic residues and can tempt thirsty animals.

Waterless Car Wash Products are Good for Small Jobs
One way to avoid such problems altogether is to wash your car using any number of waterless formulas available, which are especially handy for spot cleaning and are applied via spray bottle and then wiped off with a cloth. Freedom Waterless Car Wash is a leading product in this growing field.

A Better Car Wash Option for Fundraising
One last caution: Kids and parents planning a fundraising car wash event should know that they might be violating clean water laws if run-off is not contained and disposed of properly. Washington’s Puget Sound Carwash Association, for one, allows fund-raisers to sell tickets redeemable at local car washes, enabling the organizations to still make money while keeping dry and keeping local waterways clean.

Source: About.com: environmental issues

Contractor washing construction vehicle in the Komati River

Washing vehicles is a necessary part of maintenance.  However, some people go to extremes and waste f a r too much water just to remove superficial dirt.  Generally, using a bucket as opposed to running water from a hose , will save water.  Eco-friendly cleaning products allow you to wash your car on your lawn- thus saving irrigation water.  As an added bonus, many eco friendly cleaning formulas are better for your car’s paintwork.  In many parts of rural Africa, vehicles are parked in or on the edges of rivers and washed.  This is a normal activity for many with no thought of water contamination from carwash soap and oil and grease from the vehicle. During c onstruction projects, contractors can be heavily fined if any of there vehicles are washed outside of a proper washbay that has oil traps installed.  Many aquatic organisms are super-sensitive to even minute amounts of contaminants.  Edu cation at school level is required to put an end to this environmentally damaging habit. A clean, shiny car is often a source of pride to the owner but it’s not acceptable if the environment is harmed to keep it that way.  Use waterless washing formulas to clear away light dirt and when a major wash is required, try to use an automated car wash that recycles water.  Water Rhapsody have developed a special water recycling system for automated car wash machines; and have begun installing these around southern Africa.  Contact us for all your water conservation needs (we supply and install water tanks too!).

]]> http://www.rainharvest.co.za/2010/07/eco-friendly-car-washing/feed/ 2 http://www.rainharvest.co.za/2010/04/irrigation-system-can-grow-crops-with-salt-water/ http://www.rainharvest.co.za/2010/04/irrigation-system-can-grow-crops-with-salt-water/#comments Fri, 16 Apr 2010 19:47:08 +0000 admin http://www.rainharvest.co.za/?p=694 Tweet

A British company has created an irrigation system that can grow crops using salt water.

The dRHS (Dutyion Root Hydration System) irrigation system consists of a network of sub-surface pipes, which can be filled with almost any water, whether pure, brackish, salted or polluted. The system can even take most industrial waste-water and use it without the need for a purification process.

The pipes are made from a plastic that retains virtually all contaminants while letting clean water through to the plants’ roots.

It was designed by Mark Tonkin of Design Technology and Irrigation, which is based in Brighton. He says that once the pipes have been laid, the system will require little maintenance and therefore no significant costs. This is partly because it’s fed by gravity from an elevated supply tank, and partly because water diffuses through the porous pipe walls, so there are no holes to get blocked up.

The farmer will occasionally have to  flush the pipes to clean out salt crystals and dirt, but Tonkin says this is a simple process. Since the water is delivered directly to the plant roots, there is much less wastage through evaporation and run-off than with traditional irrigation systems. According to the inventor, it is also impossible to over-water plants, as the system will only release more water as plants draw up clean water from the soil.

The dRHS  system, which has been in development for ten years, was initially trialled in the UK using tomato plants, and has since been tried out in the US. The next trials will take place in Chile, Libya, Tanzania, Mauritius and Spain. Tonkin says 20,000 metres of pipe are on their way to the Middle East, where it will be tested with water that’s more saline than sea water.

The system has so far supported the growth of tomatoes, radishes, courgettes, peppers, lettuce, strawberries and beans as well as three different types of tree – cherry, olive and prosopis. The company is now trying to grow acacias, oaks and banana trees among others.

It has also won international recognition for its work, most recently at the international Water Technology Idol event in Switzerland, organised by Global Water Intelligence magazine and the International Desalination Association.

Christopher Gasson from Global Water Intelligence magazine says that the competition was a three-way tie last year but this year, the winner stood out. “The dRHS irrigation system addressed a bigger problem than the other technology that it was competing against,” he said. “Agriculture water is where 70 per cent of water goes. By 2025 two thirds of the world’s population will experience water shortages and so farming will be badly hit.

“Salination is a huge problem. Already 97.5 per cent of the water in the world is salty, and this is becoming more of a problem as people in poor countries recycle water, sometimes leaving the soil with a salty crust. This system will help a lot.”

Source: Wired

Mark Tonkin from Geologie on Vimeo.

The Dutyion Root Hydration System seems to possess all the ideal traits of an efficient irrigation system.  Conventional irrigation systems suffer, to a varying degree, from evaporation, blockages, over-watering and technical hitches.  Perhaps it has one ‘fault’: the farmer may not be able to introduce soluble fertilizers into the system, i.e. fertigation; the pipes may prevent the fertilizers from diffusing through the walls (I can only base this assumption on limited technical information available to me).  A way around this, is fertilizer application via hand or machine (hopefully organic, sustainably manufactured fertilizer).  Conventional drip irrigation is frequently made from bio-degradable pipe material that has limited lifespan and can be ploughed back into the soil; is the dRHS system biodegradable too?  Water Rhapsody’s ‘Garden Rhapsody’ grey water irrigation system uses gray water from your bath, shower, bathroom sinks and washing machine to irrigate your garden.  This saves water, saves money and prevents unwanted graywater from entering our overburdened sewage systems.  It’s always best to irrigate lawns and gardens at night- prevents unnecessary water-loss through evaporation.  Fortunately, most people shower or bath in the evenings or early mornings; the Garden Rhapsody automatically irrigates as water is received from the drains.  Grey water is nutrient-rich and can replace conventional fertilizer for your lawn and garden.  However, there are several rules for the re-use of grey water that must be adhered to.  Water Rhapsody water conservation systems help you to save water without too many lifestyle changes.  If you combine the Water Rhapsody systems with other water saving tips, substantial amounts of water will be saved.

These are 4 very easy tips to save water; if everyone acted on these tips, how many millions of litres could we save?  Relatively clean water is still going down the drain; Water Rhapsody grey water systems enable this water to be used for irrigation purposes or reused for toilet cisterns.  See our gray water frequently asked questions for more information.

It is easy to save water and energy in a household by applying some common sense.  Changing habits can be difficult for some people, especially if creature comforts are being impacted upon.  Water Rhapsody Conservation Systems allow you to save water and money (up to 90% of your municipal water bills) without many changes to your current lifestyle.  With a grey water system installed, any excess water flushed down the drain is reused either by irrigating your garden or reused for toilet flushing (Second Movement System).  Reducing water capacity in a toilet’s cistern is easy (e.g. by placing a water-displacing ‘water hippo’ in the cistern).  However, this does mean that should there be an obstruction in the toilet bowl, the smaller amount of cistern water available may be insufficient to clear it.  A better way to control toilet flushing is by installing a Water Rhapsody Multi-Flush.  The Multi-Flush allows the user to control exactly how much water is used during each flush. See our product demo page for information on how the various Water Rhapsody products operate.

Sustainability is about a business managing not only the financial but also the social and environmental impact of its operations. By taking sustainable action, restaurants can make a huge difference on issues such as climate change, animal welfare and food waste…

Support sustainable restaurants

There are many ways of categorising sustainable issues for a restaurant. SRA (Sustainable Restaurant Association) in the UK, classify issues under three headings: Sourcing, Environment and Society. This covers 14 key activity areas (below). SRA’s research shows that dividing sustainability up into easily digestible, topical portions can really help restaurants focus on issues, set targets and action change.

Rather rinse in a bowl, use less water

SOURCING

1 Local & Seasonal

2 Environmentally Positive Farming
3 Ethical Meat & Dairy
4 Sustainable Fish
5 Fair Trade

ENVIRONMENT

6 Supply Chain
7 Energy Efficiency
8 Water Saving
9 Waste Management
10 Workplace Resources

SOCIETY

11 Healthy Eating
12 Community Engagement
13 Treating People Fairly
14 Responsible Marketing

Sustainability is good for business and the planet. Local, sustainable food sources, recycled waste, energy efficiency: it’s what more and more customers want. Sustainable restaurants can make a huge difference on issues such as climate change, animal welfare and food waste, water conservation…

Source: Sustainable Restaurant Association

Water is vital to our food production and consumption. From crop irrigation to cleaning, processing and preparing food in the home or restaurant setting, water is often used without much thought. Organisations like the SRA in the UK recognise the importance of water conservation, amongst other essential considerations.  A chef at home or in a restaurant setting can attempt to minimise water waste in some ways, for example: by washing fruit/vegetables in a bowl of water rather than under a running tap.  However, when things ‘heat up’ in the kitchen, water conservation may be the furthest thing on a chef’s mind. A grey water recycling system or a second movement system will ensure that even if you use running taps to wash your vegetables, the water will be recycled and used for irrigation or put to another use.   Water Rhapsody Mpumalanga/Limpopo can offer several long-term solutions for food suppliers and food lovers alike.  Where better to recycle & conserve water than where crowds gather to use and consume it.

Water Rhapsody Water Conservation Systems has incorporated Yes Solar Mpumalanga so that we can offer solar water heating systems to further reduce your environmental impact (water and energy are linked).  Yes Solar is a distributor for Solsquare Solar Solutions- high quality German-engineered solar energy systems that are competitively priced.  Solsquare solar geysers are SABS- and Eskom-approved and are fitted by qualified, Eskom-accredited solar installers.  In South Africa, home solar water heaters generally amortize their initial cost within 36 months (at current Eskom rates). Now is the time to install a solar geyser while the Eskom rebates last (this money will run out eventually) and before the looming energy crisis arrives.  Solar water geysers can reduce household electricity costs by up to 50%.

Water Rhapsody’s WWF AWARD-winning water conservation systems (product demo) include rainwater harvesting systems, grey water recycling systems, swimming pool backwash recycling, water-saving toilet flushing mechanisms and rainwater tanks (we are authorised  JoJo Tanks & Atlas Plastics water tank dealers in Mpumalanga and Limpopo).

Our water and solar systems will save the environment while you save money on water and electricity bills; get free water and free water heating!

Contact us for a free quote on a solar geyser, water system or water tank.

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