What can we do to combat drought?

I believe we are in agreement that water resources are being squandered recklessly and used as an inexhaustible source. In a TV program, when asked if your water bill is high, and proudly answering “it’s 600 TL a month,” we want to address those who think this way.

Today, 80 countries, which account for 40% of the world’s population, are already facing water scarcity. According to the United Nations, 1.1 billion people currently do not have access to safe drinking water. Let’s not assume that our region has an infinite supply of clean water. It is projected that Turkey will also face water scarcity by 2040. Take care to protect water sources, considering that one day, when you turn on the faucet, clean water may not flow.

So, how can we protect water resources?

• By not polluting existing drinking water sources (lakes, rivers, dams)

How? Whether it’s a facility, a business, or a residence, prevent hazardous substances such as oil/fuel from reaching the drain or nearby receiving environments. This can be achieved through the use of an oil/fuel separator, grease trap, or treatment facilities for larger installations.

• Increasing green spaces and tree count to increase rainfall

With the increase in green areas, the renewed root system makes the soil porous, allowing water to infiltrate more easily. This leads to the rise of groundwater aquifers and increased soil fertility. Fertile soil continues to renew and grow on its own. Increasing green areas increases the moisture on the earth’s surface, resulting in more rainfall. This brings us natural drinking water.

The only thing we can do here is not to support projects created by destroying ecology and to ensure that our little gifts are made up of trees.

• By harvesting rainwater

The collection and recycling of rainwater, which has become a necessity for new zoning plans, are now mandatory. Due to the complex structure of large cities and unplanned urbanization, rainwater that falls on roofs, which is considered cleaner, can be collected and used for toilet reservoirs and irrigation. This will significantly reduce the use of the main water supply.

NOTE: For those who say they use groundwater for irrigation, I can also say this. Groundwater is also a clean water source and, like tap water, is at risk of depletion and disappearance.

• By using reclaimed water in processes

Today, many businesses need cooling water and process water. The process water used is often used in closed systems where there is no human contact, and this usage will be beneficial if the used process water is used repeatedly in the same process (if it does not cause operational losses). This will result in cost savings for facilities.

Car wash processes at petrol stations can also be an example for this heading. If the water collected after washing the car is well managed, it can be reused multiple times.

• Lastly, individual water conservation

When we implement the topics mentioned above, we are actually saving water. However, if we consider this topic as individual water conservation, each business is surely making an effort to use methods that reduce water consumption for their own benefit.

However, what we can do individually will affect our lives in every area. Someone who acts with this awareness will apply these principles both in the workplace and at home. Small touches like turning off the water while washing hands, wiping dishes with a napkin before putting them in the dishwasher, not buying more clothes than needed (Producing a pair of jeans requires 15,500 liters of water.), reducing shower times, using low-flow faucets, etc. can make a significant contribution to life.

Sources.(1)