H2O is the tie that binds...

Did you know that it takes nearly 64 ounces oil to create a 16 ounce bottle of water. These calculations take into account the processing, filtering, bottle creation, labels, etc. This does not include transportation of the product to the shelves for purchase. It is widely known that over 60% of consumer purchased bottled water comes from the tap. The bottling corporations will then filter, bottle, and ship the filtered tap water to the store for end sales. With a planet covered in water, yet only approx. 2% of the world's water as drinkable, we know that there is a water shortage. In the long run for our water needs conservation will not be the only means to maintain our supply.

It is simple math really. As our population continues to expand, this puts a strain on our food supply. As more crops are necessary to plant in order to feed the people and animals these crops need water. Farmers use nearly 90% of all the needed water supply. Farmers are also subsidized for their water costs, yet a high percentage of farmers will water their crops in the middle of the day. Most of this precious commodity will not even go into good use as it will evaporate before it reaches through the soil. A city dweller might pay $1200 per cubic foot acre when a farmer will pay $17. As the battle for water continues we see cities buy out these water credits from farmers for future water scarcity times. The system is broken.

Although, Las Vegas, known for its dry and arid climate reclaims nearly all of its water. They then filter it and pump it back into nearby Lake Mead to where it is held to be used again. Lake Mead has been in a steady declining drought in the past 7 years. It has reached levels that have unearthed an ancient “lost city” that was drowned by the creation of Lake Mead. The lake has gone below one of its two pump levels making the city dash to create a lower third pump station.

Perhaps having a natural landscape to the true environment would help so residents would not need to water. Instead of buying bottled water it would be best to purify your water at home and carry a mug or thermos instead. These are little things that can make big change if we can all do our part for this scarce commodity and our planet.