More Companies Taking Action to Improve Water Efficiency

Waterless® Co., Inc.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Press Release

What strikes me is how much is being accomplished to reduce water consumption around the globe.  

Vista, CA – October 20, 2024 - When it comes to water concerns, what we hear about most frequently is the failing water infrastructure in the U.S., growing water scarcity, dry aquifers, more frequent droughts, and severe water challenges in different parts of the world.

What we hear very little about is the progress being made by many companies to address these issues. These companies are becoming much more water efficient, which means they are reducing their water consumption long-term.

"I do not dispute [the fact that] the world has many water challenges," says water-efficiency expert, Klaus Reichardt, CEO and Founder of Waterless Co., Inc., marketers of no-water urinals.  

"But what is also important is that we do not overlook all the actions taken by businesses to reduce water consumption."

Reichardt points to programs such as Water<Less, which Levi Strauss & Company developed. This program reduces the amount of water used for garment finishing by 96 percent.

Since the program's inception in the late 2000s, more than 800 million gallons of water have been saved, and more than 400 million gallons of water have been recycled.

Several other corporations have also made commendable progress in enhancing their water efficiency efforts. Among them are:

• The Ford Motor Company has reduced its water consumption by 70% since 2000.

• Google has ambitiously pledged to replenish 120% of the water it uses by 2030.

• Coca-Cola achieved a milestone in 2015 by becoming the first Fortune 500 company to be net-zero - replenishing as much water as it consumes - in its worldwide beverage production.

• PepsiCo has also made substantial improvements, boosting its water efficiency by 50% from 2019 to 2020. Its target is to achieve net water positivity by 2030.  

• Similarly, Microsoft is actively working towards becoming net water positive, aiming to restore more water than it uses globally by 2030.

"What strikes me is how much is being accomplished to reduce water consumption around the globe," adds Reichardt. "This must not be overlooked because it shows what can be done and inspires other companies to follow these water-efficiency leaders."

 About Waterless

Waterless Co., Inc. has been a pioneer in water efficiency since 1991, when it introduced waterless urinals to North America. Headquartered in Vista, CA, the company has established itself as a key player in promoting water efficiency. Their product range includes a variety of no-flush urinals, liquid plumbing solutions, and cost-saving accessories, reflecting their commitment to environmental sustainability and innovation in water-saving technologies.

 Contact Information

Waterless Co. Inc.

1050 Joshua Way
Vista, CA 92081 USA
800.244.6364

sales@waterless.com

Overlooked No More: Companies Taking Action to Improve Water Efficiency

Here are some of the warnings we hear about water regularly:

• By 2023, the UN predicts that the water demand will outstrip supply by 40 percent.

• Due to climate changes, fresh water is increasingly in short supply in drought-prone areas of the world.

• Currently, as many as two billion people endure prolonged periods without access to safe water and sanitation.

At Waterless Co., Inc., we do not dispute these challenges. What we are concerned about is the lack of attention being paid to what global companies - which use two-thirds of the world’s freshwater - are doing to address these issues.

We know that with the right strategies and commitment, we can bring about positive change when it comes to water. Take for instance the following:

Levi Strauss & Co. It is always a shock to people when they learn that making a single pair of genes consumes more than 1,000 gallons of water. Levi's is aware of this, and they are taking significant steps to reduce this water consumption.

The company started a project called Water<Less.

Using the Water<Less process, Levi's claims it will be able to reduce up to 96 percent of the freshwater typically used in making of a pair of jeans. The project is a set of over twenty techniques designed to reduce water consumption and is being used in virtually all the products made by the company.

Other pant and clothing manufacturers are taking notice. Many of the steps Levi’s is taking are being shared with these companies. This collective effort is a beacon of hope, as together, these companies will make an incredibly significant contribution to reducing water consumption long-term – what water efficiency is all about.

Intel. Some of our recent posts have discussed how much water artificial intelligence (AI) servers require. In one post, we mentioned that it takes about sixteen ounces of water—as much as in a bottle of Coke—to produce just one AI-generated email.

Now, Intel, which develops chips and computer components used in AI servers, is working to address this. Intel's operations in the United States, Costa Rica, and India are officially net-positive on water use. In those countries, Intel restores and returns more freshwater than it takes in.

According to Todd Brady, Intel's chief sustainability officer, "More than ten years ago, we began exploring how to better understand and reduce our water footprint. Five years ago, we set a public goal to restore 100% of our consumption and became the first tech company to set a companywide water restoration goal."

Further, just like Levi's, many of the steps Intel is taking are being shared with other chip manufacturers worldwide. This global effort to reduce water consumption, improve water efficiency, and become net-positive is being adopted by major corporations, creating a ripple effect of positive change.

We don't hear stories like this that often. In the future "Think Waterless" posts will address this oversight.

Klaus Reichardt is CEO and founder of Waterless Co, Inc., a pioneer in advancing water efficiency. Reichardt founded the company in 1991 with the goal of establishing a new market segment in the plumbing fixture industry with water efficiency in mind. Reichardt is a frequent writer and presenter who discusses water conservation issues. He can be reached at klaus@waterless.com

Three Things You’ve Always Wondered About But Never Asked

An Ornate Toilet in a Centuries Old Water Closet

🚾What is a Water Closet?

The water closet, often abbreviated as WC, is a historical marvel that dates to the 16th century. It marks a significant milestone in the evolution of bathroom sanitation, guiding us from the days of outdoor outhouses to the comfort of indoor plumbing systems that we enjoy today.

Initially, only the rich or royalty had them, and they were often very ornate. The first known water closet in the U.S. was in Annapolis, Maryland, installed in a home called Whitehall, built for the colonial governor of Maryland around 1765.

In 1804, Thomas Jefferson installed two water closets flushed by water-fed cisterns in the White House. By the way, this was thirty years before water for drinking and bathing was installed in the White House.

Today, things are a lot different. Many of us have water closets in our homes, usually a separate room off the bathroom, even though we may not call them water closets.

🏭Why Do Plumbing Systems Have Air Vents on the Roof?

That air vent on the roof, better known as a vent stack, is a vertical pipe to which all drains in a facility are connected. The top portion extends about two feet above the roof to have access to air.

Vent stacks are connected to sewer pipes and are designed to release gases that accumulate inside the entire plumbing system. They also allow fresh air into the system, which helps water flow easily through the drainpipes.

Vent stacks, however, can malfunction over time. Typically, this happens when debris collects in the vent. You'll know there is a problem when foul odors develop in the home or facility, and you can't find the source.

Another sign of a problem is when it takes a long time for water to drain. Our first thought is usually that the pipes below the drain are clogged. However, the clog is not in the pipe but in the vent stack. Clean the vent stack, and the slow-draining problem is solved.

♨Why do J-Traps Dry Out?

J-traps, also known as P-traps, are essential components in plumbing systems. They are designed to trap a small amount of water in the pipe – known as a water seal - to prevent sewer gases from entering the home or facility.

They are typically dependable but can dry out under certain conditions, such as infrequent use or arid environments. When this happens, they release unpleasant and potentially health-risking fumes and odors. These fumes can include methane and hydrogen sulfide, which can be harmful to people and pets if inhaled in large quantities.

Regular use of sinks and drains usually maintains the necessary water seal, but less frequent use may require additional measures.

Pouring water down the drain is a temporary fix, as evaporation, over time, will evaporate the water seal. Decades ago, a myth developed that pouring bleach down the drain would fix the problem. Now, we know this is very dangerous due to bleach's chemical properties and its potential to create hazardous fumes when mixed with sewer gases.

Fortunately, products like Everprime offer a safe and convenient solution. Everprime is a biodegradable liquid that maintains the water seal for extended periods, even in extreme climate conditions and when drains are used infrequently. Three ounces of Everprime poured down all drains provides a sense of security, ensuring the functionality of J-traps, and helping to maintain a pleasant, healthy, and odor-free indoor environment.

#Waterless Co., Inc is a #pioneer in #waterefficiency. We are the go-to company when it comes to reducing #waterconsumption, understanding the many benefits of waterless urinals, and #waterefficiently. For more information, contact a Waterless Co Specialist. 

The Water-Hungry World of AI 🤖

Artificial intelligence is becoming an increasingly integral part of our daily lives. However, its growth comes at a significant cost: water.

As AI systems consume more and more water, it's essential to consider their impact on our planet's precious resources.

Here’s an example of what I’m talking about:

If sixteen million people in the United States were to send just one 100-word email per week using ChatGPT, a widely popular AI platform, it would require approximately one hundred fifteen million gallons of water annually.

That’s nearly equivalent to the total water consumption of Rhode Island in two days.

Researchers have also found that a single 100-word AI-generated email uses slightly more water than a standard 16.9-ounce bottle of soda. These seemingly small amounts can quickly add up, highlighting the need for mindful water consumption and water efficiency in the age of AI.

So, where is all this water going?

Most of this water is going for cooling AI servers. They need a lot more cooling – meaning a lot more water – than traditional servers.

This water consumption is further exacerbated by the substantial electricity demands of generative AI in regions like California, where a sizable portion of electricity is generated using water-intensive methods.

Google's data centers offer a stark example of AI's water footprint.

According to recent research by the University of California, these data centers withdrew nearly 6.5 billion gallons of water and consumed 5.3 billion gallons for cooling in 2022 alone, a 21% increase from the previous year. These are the latest stats available.

Microsoft's water consumption for AI purposes rose by an even more alarming 34% during the same period.

Today, some AI companies are drawn to Arizona because of the abundant sunshine for solar power generation. However, the need for water for cooling remains is a pressing concern. With Arizona already facing water scarcity due to climate change and population growth, the additional demand from AI technology could further strain its fragile water resources.

In response to these concerns, a ChatGPT spokesperson emphasized the company's ongoing efforts to improve efficiency. These initiatives include developing more water-efficient cooling systems, optimizing AI algorithms, and increasingly turning to renewable energy sources.

While these solutions hold promise, it's imperative to address the growing water challenges associated with AI's unchecked expansion. The potential threat to global water scarcity cannot be ignored. Responsible and efficient water management is essential to ensure that AI's benefits are realized without compromising the worlds growing needs for clean, healthy, potable water.

Klaus Reichardt is CEO and founder of Waterless Co, Inc., a pioneer in advancing water efficiency. Reichardt is a frequent author and presenter who discusses water conservation issues. He can be reached at klaus@waterless.com

The future of restrooms is here! 🚹

Our Baja urinal installed on a building’s roof top.

🙌The Baja Waterless Urinal from Waterless Co. Inc. has just been named one of the best in 2024.

This recognition from Thehomebit.com highlights its unmatched quality and performance.

Here’s what makes the Baja a game changer:

→ The EcoTrap trap/cylinder blocks odors for a fresh, clean experience.

→ Compact design: 14” x 14.5” x 21.5”.

→ Lightweight at just 26.4 pounds.

→ Made from durable ceramic for long-lasting use.

→ No need for flush water supply lines.

→ Easy installation with no handles or flush sensors.

🔧Upgrade your restroom with the Baja Waterless Urinal.

Find it on Amazon: https://lnkd.in/gYGsz8q7. 🛒

Five Design Features of Tomorrow’s Restrooms

One of the key points made in this excellent article about future trends in restrooms designs is the following:

In light of the pandemic, as more customers and guests are keen on cleanliness, the use of waterless urinals will inevitably expand.

Learn more about these trends here:

Can a Boom Town Make it Without Water?

Between Austin and San Antonio, Texas, lies a city that's quickly making a name for itself as the second fastest-growing city in the country, yet many of us are unaware of its existence.

Kyle, Texas is the epitome of a boom town.

Amazon's recent establishment of a 300,000-square-foot sorting center in Kyle, followed by Tesla's construction of a mega-factory nearby, underscores the city's allure. With low taxes, a burgeoning housing market, and ample space for further development, Kyle is a prime location for business growth.

But Kyle has two key challenges that could bring this boom town to a grinding halt:

Heat. The relentless onslaught of climate change, as reported in The Wall Street Journal, * has transformed life in Kyle into a daily struggle. With temperatures soaring to 100 degrees even before the summer officially began, residents are resorting to extreme measures such as wearing neck fans, limiting outdoor activities to early morning and nighttime, and keeping their children indoors.

Water. The area is expected to experience drought conditions for three or four months every year through 2040. “Water has been growing scarcer for decades here, but the shortage is worsening. Creeks and watering holes are drying up, hurt by prolonged droughts and the faster evaporation caused by higher temperatures,” according to the Journal report.

If you find these water challenges all too familiar, you’re not alone. Several cities in Texas and the Southwest are navigating similar waters, or lack thereof. But unlike other towns, Kyle has its own unique battle with the potent forces of excessive heat and insufficient water. For instance:

* The soil beneath hundreds of new homes in Kyle is drying up, causing the foundations to buckle. In a testament to their resilience, residents are taking proactive measures to moisten the soil under their houses, using thousands of gallons of water they can barely spare to keep their homes standing.

*According to an engineering report, in 2023, Kyle businesses and residents required more than 4,000 additional gallons of water per minute during peak consumption periods than the city could supply. This was a significant increase from a shortfall of only 571 gallons per minute in 2021, highlighting the escalating water demand in Kyle.

*Household water bills rose 6.8 percent from 2012 to 2022. While this is nearly double the average rate increase for water in the Southwest, it is still far short of what it costs to treat, deliver, and remove water from Kyle’s water customers.

*Kyle gets most of its water from an aquifer – the same one that provides water to San Antonio and sections of Austin. Now, there are concerns that this aquifer could run dry within ten years, possibly twenty. This could have catastrophic implications, potentially affecting not just Kyle, but also its two sister cities.

Dealing with the Looming Crisis

To mitigate the crisis, the city has taken several steps:

• Purchasing Water Rights: Kyle has acquired water rights from nearby San Marcos, Texas, temporarily diverting water intended for that city. However, this is a short-term solution.

• Building a Pipeline: A $250 million pipeline is being constructed to transport water from a distant aquifer. Unfortunately, delays have pushed back the project, and it may not be operational for another year or two.

• Implementing Water Restrictions: The city has enacted water conservation measures, including bans on home car washing, limitations on sprinkler and soaker hose use, and a halt to certain housing developments.

But to ensure long-term sustainability, Kyle must prioritize water efficiency. This involves promoting responsible water use, adopting water-saving technologies, and exploring ways to eliminate water consumption altogether.

One example frequently found in the Southwest is the installation of no-water (waterless) urinals. These have proven to be a healthy and effective alternative to conventional urinals and have saved millions, if not billions, of gallons of water for decades.

This means there may be light at the end of the tunnel. By focusing on water efficiency and other sustainable practices, Kyle and other cities in such situations should be able to meet their water challenges and better prepare for the future with a reliable water supply.

Klaus Reichardt is CEO and founder of Waterless Co, Inc., a pioneer in advancing water efficiency. Reichardt is a frequent author and presenter who discusses water conservation issues. He can be reached at klaus@waterless.com

Keeping Your Customer's Facility Healthy This Winter

Here’s what cleaning professionals need to know. Winter months are around the corner, and they are often cold and dry—the perfect scenario for causing floor drains to dry up. This can result in the release of toxic sewer gases in your customer's facility.

To address this, custodial workers often pour water or bleach down drains. However, this is a temporary fix, and bleach can be harmful to the environment.

A more professional, effective, and certainly inexpensive option is  to use EverPrime from Waterless Co

EverPrime is biodegradable, environmentally friendly, and long-lasting. It's not impacted by extreme heat or cold, and most importantly, it doesn't evaporate.

This means you can trust it to prevent noxious sewer gases from escaping into your customers’ restrooms and filtering throughout their facility.

Mixing three ounces of EverPrime in a gallon of water does the job.

For more information about the features and benefits of EverPrime, visit www.waterless.com or call toll-free 800-244-6364 today.

AI's Secret Ingredient: Water

Artificial intelligence (AI) models have witnessed remarkable breakthroughs and success in numerous areas. While still controversial, the potential of AI to positively impact our country and countries worldwide is undeniable.

While it has made significant strides in various fields, AI's environmental impact often goes unnoticed. While the carbon footprint of AI models has received some attention, its water footprint has largely been overlooked.

AI models are typically housed in energy-intensive data centers, which require vast amounts of water for cooling and electricity generation.

This water consumption can strain already limited freshwater resources, especially in regions of the world facing water scarcity - including right here in the U.S.

As the world's population grows and climate change intensifies, freshwater availability is becoming increasingly scarce. This pressing issue demands immediate attention.

That's why it is crucial to recognize AI's hidden water costs and explore strategies to reduce the water consumption associated with these data centers.

By doing so, we can pave the way for a future where AI contributes positively to our society without compromising our planet's precious water resources.

Fortunately, there is hope for a more sustainable future and it's called water-efficiency. At Waterless Co., Inc., we define water efficiency as:

"The responsible use of water resources through water-saving and water-eliminating technologies. It involves reducing our water footprint in business, industry, and home consumption. Focusing on water efficiency ensures we make the most of every drop, minimize waste, and protect this vital resource."

We can do this. We can, and we are finding ways to be more efficient with water. Let's stay committed to this cause and inspire others to join us in this crucial mission.

www.waterless.com

Your Questions answered about everprime

We've recently shared several articles about our product, EverPrime, on LinkedIn and our website. EverPrime is a biodegradable liquid that keeps the P-trap (also known as the U-trap or J-trap) under drains filled, preventing potentially toxic sewer odors from being released into restrooms and other facility areas.

Since then, we've received many questions about P-traps, plumbing maintenance, and EverPrime. Below, we share some of those questions and their answers with you. 

What happens when drains dry up?

A P-trap is a very practical device installed under almost all drains. As water goes down the drain, a small amount collects in the P-trap, helping prevent sewer gasses from being released into the room or area. However, P-traps can dry up when facilities such as schools or office buildings are closed for long periods or when restrooms or faucets get little or no use.  That’s when sewer odors are released.

What creates the sewer gas?

Sewer gas is formed from decomposing human and animal waste. It contains ammonia, methane, and hydrogen sulfide, all of which can be toxic if inhaled in high concentrations. Many people suffer eye irritation, nausea, or difficulty breathing if they inhale these gasses, and people have died as a result of sewer gas being released into an enclosed area.

Can you just pour some water down the drain if you smell the sewer odors?

Yes, you can, but here's the problem. By the time you smell it, it may be too late. When it comes to sewer odors, it is best to take proactive steps, preventing them from happening in the first place, instead of reactive measures, which deal with the problem after it presents itself.

Who is at risk?

We all are at risk if the situation is dangerous enough. And children may be at even higher risk because they breathe faster than adults.

Are there "levels" of sewer gas concentration?

Excellent question, and yes, there are. Here is what we know.

·       Concentrations of 0.0005 parts per million (ppm) can be detected and smells like burning chemicals or rotten eggs

·       At 0.01, it can cause nausea and eye discomfort.

·       From 0.02 ppm to as high as 20 ppm, can produce headaches, increase heart rates, impact cognitive abilities, and cause muscle coordination.

What steps can we take to prevent this from happening?

Adding water to the drain every day will help. If in a room that is mopped daily that should allow enough water to run down the drain to keep the P-trap from drying up. However, when no water goes down the pipes for days, weeks, or longer, that’s when the sewer odor problems surface. In such cases, a very inexpensive but effective product that can keep the P-trap filled for months is called EverPrime®.  

EverPrime is biodegradable and as we said, very cost-effective.  Only about three ounces of the product need be poured into each drain. Further, EverPrime is not impacted by climate conditions and it lasts for months.

Stay informed and keep your facility smelling fresh with EverPrime!