Water conservation and efficiency – while the two terms might seem like the same thing as both achieve the same goal of using less water – they approach water savings differently.
So, what is the difference?
Water Efficiency is the minimizing the amount of water used to accomplish a task; doing more with less water. Typically it’s achieved by the use of well-engineered products and fixtures that are designed specifically to reduce water usage; for example, newer style washers & dishwashers, as well as low-flow toilets and shower heads.
Water Conservation is the actual practice of using water efficiently to reduce unnecessary water usage; for example, turning water off when shaving/brushing teeth, washing only full loads of laundry or dishes, and complying with watering restrictions/bans.
Why are efficiency and conservation important? Because fresh clean water is a limited natural resource, making conservation critical for the environment.
