Water Footprint

I think we all have heard of our Carbon Footprint.  I was surprised to learn last night that there is also such a thing as a Water Footprint.

Here is a visual that shows how much fresh water is used to make just 1 kiligram (roughly 2.2 lbs.) of these products.

Damn!  That's a lot of water.


I found another great graphic that shows the Global Water Footprint.  Not only does this illustrate the rarity of our fresh water, but it shows us which countries are most dependent on water importation, which countries are most efficient at renewing their water resources, and which countries have the largest water footprint per capita.  It does not surprise me that we (Americans) are the largest consumers of water in the world.  We are the largest consumers, period.

I am surprised, however, by how little the water footprint is in China.  Even with all of their rice paddies and huge factories, they still use far, far less water than we do.

Remember: per capita means per person

I wanted to learn more about my own water footprint, so I went to the National Geographic website and took the Water Footprint Calculator test thing.  As I was trucking (heh heh) along, I was feeling pretty good.  I was using much less water than the average American.  I don't eat Pork, and I very rarely eat chicken or beef. I don't shower regularly (sorry, guys).  I only do laundry twice a month.  I don't use a dishwasher.

 I was starting to feel pretty good about myself and my tiny water foot.  Until it got to energy uses...  Not only is my apartment completely furnished with non-energy saving appliances and lightbulbs, but my beloved truck is a total water guzzler!

I drive a 1999 Toyota Tacoma which only gets 22 mpg.

This alone made my water usage soar far above average.  I was totally shocked!  When I think about my gasoline or oil, I think about the dependence on fossil fuels, pollution, climate change, pipelines and wars.  I now know I also need to worry and fret over its effects on water, too!

I have already planned to buy a new car once I get my big-girl teacher salary, but now I am feeling some urgency!  At least I will have this information and incorporate it into my search for a fuel-efficient, and water saving, vehicle.

So, what can we do to educate ourselves about our water usage (besides learn all about it in Project WET)?  We turn to the internet, of course!!

The Water Footprint Network has great resources to explain the water footprint concept and ways to get involved in their program.

National Geographic Water Footprint Calculator:  use this to learn exactly how and where you and your family is using most of its water.

The Nature Conservancy website has great information and good tips on how to cut down on energy and water usages.


Talk together with your family about how you can reduce not only your carbon footprint, but your water footprint as well.  Most of the time, if you make any effort concerning the three R's (reduce, reuse, recycle), you are going to have an impact on both feet!