In recognition of Canada Water Week, Environment Minister Terry Lake is urging British Columbians to conserve and protect one of our most precious natural assets.

This year Canada Water Week runs from March 19-25 under the theme "Discover Your Water Footprint" and coincides with World Water Day on March 22. The Province is a partner and supporter of Canada Water Week and is working with provincial/territorial counterparts across Canada to help profile the event from coast-to-coast-to-coast.

Water is a finite resource and conserving it reduces our need for expanding drinking water and wastewater treatment, as well as expensive water infrastructure.

Quotes:

Minister of Environment Terry Lake:

"In B.C. we use about 490 litres of water per person per day, not including industrial or agricultural use. British Columbians can reduce their water use, energy bills and help protect the environment by making water-smart choices and adopting water-efficient technologies."

Quick Facts:

The following water conservation tips will result in substantial savings over time. Following these tips is easy, cost-effective and will help individuals to make their homes water smart:

• Choose water-efficient WaterSense-labelled appliances, such as washing machines, dishwashers, refrigerators, irrigation systems, taps and toilets. By choosing water-efficient products, you'll help protect the environment and save energy and money.
• For example, installing a low-flow showerhead can save the average family up to 20,000 litres of water a year, as well as money on water-heating bills.
• Turn off the tap while you brush your teeth, wash or shave.
• Water gardens in the early morning or evening as evaporation is less likely during these times.
• Run your dishwasher when it's full, and scrape dirty dishes instead of pre-rinsing them.
• Fix drips and leaks promptly. Even a small leak can add up to thousands of litres of wasted water per month.
• Consider xeriscaping and xerogardening so you can garden in a way that uses less water.

Learn More:

Take the Living Water Smart Home Water Assessment: http://livingwatersmart.ca/get_involved/home-assessment.html

For details and more water smart tips, please visit: www.livingwatersmart.ca

Contact:

Suntanu Dalal
Media Relations
Ministry of Environment
250 387-9745