Will Water Be the Great Unifier in Our Country

The US has become significantly fractured over the past twenty years. Many of us believe that the country will never be united – like it was after Pearl Harbor or after 9/11.

But as we face the future, there is one challenge we must all address, and by working together – united- we can ensure everyone in this country has access to clean and safe water for today and for future generations.

According to the most recent US Geological Survey (USGS) dataset, the United States uses approximately 322 billion gallons of water daily.

However, the future presents a daunting challenge. The demand for freshwater is set to surge while supplies dwindle. This impending crisis is fueled by factors such as population growth, climate change, warmer temperatures, and more aquifers running dry. 

How can we unite to meet our water needs today and in the future?

At Waterless Co., Inc., a leading advocate for water efficiency, we propose the following:

1.       Foster Innovation: Let's ignite the spirit of innovation in the plumbing industry to develop more water-saving/no-water technologies. This isn't just a necessity; it's a business growth opportunity. The birth and evolution of the waterless urinal industry is a testament to what innovation can achieve.

2.       Promote Leadership: The industry needs strong leadership to enhance water savings and efficiency. While competition among manufacturers drives innovation, we also need leaders to guide us in addressing our growing water challenges.

3.       Educate the Public: It's crucial to engage the public in the discourse of water sustainability and efficiency. The best way to achieve this is through ongoing education. Many people today are unaware of our looming water challenges, including water scarcity in our own country. It's time to empower everyone with this knowledge.

4.       Encourage Lawmakers to Take a Stand: Just as we must educate the public, we must inform our lawmakers to take bipartisan action to address this country’s evolving water crisis. With the right policies and regulations, we can significantly reduce water waste and ensure a sustainable water supply for future generations.

Water is a precious resource that requires mindful usage. Every time we boil water in a kettle, drink water from a bottle, take a bath or shower, or flush a toilet or a water-hungry conventional urinal, we face a critical choice: we can either waste water as if our supply is infinite, or we can use it responsibly to preserve resources for future generations.

The wisdom of the Iroquois people offers powerful guidance in this regard. Their Great Law reminds us to consider the long-term consequences of our actions, explicitly urging us to evaluate how our decisions will impact the next seven generations. This principle calls us to be stewards of our environment, thinking beyond our immediate needs.

Let’s make 2025 the year we embrace this responsible approach. Each of us – united - can make a difference by being more conscious of our water consumption, always looking for new ways to use water more efficiently and making choices that protect this vital resource for our children, grandchildren, and the generations that will follow.

-Klaus

Four Ways to Keep No-Water Urinals Fresh, Clean, and Odor Free

There have been questions about no-water urinals in the past such as odor issues.  However, we now know that with proper maintenance, these urinals contribute to a pleasant, odor-free restroom experience. This is due to our improved understanding of no-water urinal odors and our ability to address them effectively.

Here's four ways to keep your no-water urinals fresh, clean, and odor free:

1). Add Sealing Liquid or Replace the Cartridge

Most waterless urinals have a cartridge, a.k.a a trap, at the bottom of the urinal, pictured above. Its purpose is twofold:

1. Collect urine and send it down to the sewer line.

2. Prevent sewer odors from being released into the restroom through the sealing liquid inside the cartridge.

When the trap operates correctly, it helps ensure restrooms are odor-free. However, the sealing liquid and cartridges must be replaced based on how frequently the urinal is used. With some brands, the cartridges need to be replaced every two months. However, urinals using the EcoTrap® cartridge typically only need to be replaced every six months.

Regardless of the type of no-water urinal, if you notice urinal odors, check if the sealing liquid or cartridge needs to be replaced. If so, it’s a quick and easy procedure.

2). Cleaning the Urinal

Another key reason for no-water urinal odor problems, as with flush urinals, is improper cleaning. Before exploring this further, here's 2 things you should not do:

  • Never pour water down a waterless urinal. It is not needed. This can cause clogs in the cartridge as the urine may mix with the water and form calcium crystals.

  • The interior of the urinal does not need to be scrubbed, as no water deposits are present.

Instead, the most effective way to clean a waterless urinal is to use NviroClean - specially made to clean waterless and conventional urinals - or an all-purpose cleaning solution or disinfectant.

Spray the entire urinal first, then wait a couple of minutes. This is called dwell time, a technique that allows the cleaning solution to work effectively. Then wipe the urinal clean, preferably with a microfiber cleaning cloth.

3). Clean Urinal Surroundings

As any custodial worker will attest, men do not always have the best aim.  By the end of a business day, urine droplets collect on floors, partitions, walls, and behind the urinal.  As it collects, it releases odors.

To address this, cleaning the surrounding area of any urinal is essential during each cleaning visit.  An all-purpose cleaner is usually all that is necessary.  Also, be sure to mop around the urinal regularly using a clean mop.

Further, if a mat is installed under the urinal, be sure it is changed and cleaned regularly. This applies to no-water and water-using urinals. Have a professional linen service come in on a regular basis to collect the mats and replace them with fresh ones.

4). Check for Clogs 

Clogs in the piping can lead to odor problems. If you suspect a clog, use an auger to clear the pipe. If this resolves the issue, you're all set. However, if the problem persists, it may be time to call a plumber.

There you have it. 

Custodial workers often say cleaning and maintaining a waterless urinal is easier than cleaning a flush urinal. Plus, it can be safer. There is less splatter, and there is no concern that the cleaning solution will release fumes when mixed with urine.

That's why, when it comes to cleaning, we suggest staying healthy - the waterless way.

Urgent Action Needed to Ensure the World’s Supply of Fresh Water

Study Prepared by the UN Commission on the Economics of Water

Vista, CA – December 3, 2024 - Half the world’s population is currently grappling with a severe water scarcity crisis, according to a report from the Global Commission on the Economics of Water published in October 2024.

The report warns that this alarming figure is only set to escalate as the climate crisis intensifies.
The report also highlighted the following:

  • More than 2 billion people lack safe drinking water, and 3.6 billion people – 44 percent of the world’s population – lack safe sanitation.

  • Tragically, every day, 1,000 innocent children lose their lives due to the lack of access to safe water. This heart-wrenching statistic underscores the urgent need for action.

  • Demand for fresh water is expected to outstrip supply by 40 percent in just six years.

  • Without action, by 2050, water problems will shave about 8 percent off global gross domestic product (GDP), with poorer countries, such as those in sub-Saharan Africa and parts of Asia, facing a 15 percent loss.

  • Over half of the world’s food production comes from areas experiencing unstable water availability trends - including areas of the United States.

It also pointed out that two types of water serve the world:  

Green Water. Found in soil, this water is used by agriculture, plants, and soil microorganisms. When used by vegetation, it is released back into the atmosphere through the process of transpiration.

Blue Water. This water comes from rainfall or the melting of snow.

While the study focused on many other dark realities related to water, it also provided some answers and solutions, according to Klaus Reichardt, CEO and Founder of Waterless Co., Inc., a leading marketer of no-water urinals.

According to Reichardt, the report concluded that we must reshape world economies so that water is used more efficiently, eliminating waste.

He also suggests that we should "begin with the end in mind when it comes to water, focusing on the desired outcome and then work backward to achieve it."

 

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

For Thanksgiving 2024: A Poem from Waterless Co, Inc

Water, pure and bright 🍃🌧☔💦

Cleansing our souls, quenching our thirst

Flowing through our streams and rivers.
˚˖𓍢ִ໋🌷͙֒✧˚.🎀༘⋆

A gift from heaven, the icy peaks and the ocean's depth

Water shapes our world

Bringing about a symphony of nature.

In every drop, a universe unfolds.

Let us always be grateful

Precious water, it gives us life 🌊

-Klaus
CEO Waterless Co., Inc

How Microsoft Is Addressing Water Challenges

This is part of our continuing series, Overlooked No More, where we highlight companies and organizations taking significant steps to reduce water consumption and use water more efficiently.

Many of the companies previously featured focus primarily on their own water use and finding ways to use less. However, our focus company this month, Microsoft, is extending its efforts far beyond its own operations. The company collaborates with countries and organizations worldwide to reduce water consumption, enhance water efficiency, and replenish water supplies.

Before exploring some of their efforts, the following two terms need to be clarified:

Water Efficiency. This refers to strategies that reduce or eliminate water consumption for the long term. Xeriscape landscaping, installing low-flow toilets, and no-water urinals are perfect examples.

Water Replenishment. According to Microsoft, replenishment activities typically address water quantity, availability, or quality by reducing water use and recharging local aquifers.

So, what's Microsoft been up to?

Among their major water efficiency projects currently are the following:

**The Colorado River** The goal here is to focus on water efficiency by using technologies that quickly uncover and repair leaks and introducing steps for farmers to reduce water consumption.

**Chile** This country frequently faces multi-year droughts that severely impact its water availability. To address this, Microsoft uses advanced leak detection technologies, helping farmers use water more efficiently, and develops projects that help the land absorb and retain more water, such as reforestation and soil conservation.

**Shanghai** This city of twenty-five million people has several water-related difficulties. Substantial amounts of water in Shanghai are polluted due to agricultural runoff and insufficient wastewater treatment. Additionally, there is a leadership vacuum in water management. To address this, Microsoft seeks ways to strengthen water stewardship, restore wetland areas to minimize runoff and improve water quality.

**Phoenix** Cooling systems can use vast volumes of water, especially in hot and dry areas such as Phoenix, AZ. Furthermore, these mechanicals often use more water as they age. Microsoft has developed a revolving loan program for the city's hospitals to address this. Loans are provided to hospitals to retrofit their HVAC systems. As the money is paid back, those funds are re-loaned to other hospitals, reducing water consumption and dramatically improving water efficiency.

Beyond water efficiency and replenishment, Microsoft's other water goals include the following:

  • Finding Water Alternatives: Exploring and implementing alternatives to water, particularly for data centers.

  • Monitoring and Measurement: Encourage water consumption tracking and replenishment efforts. Data allows communities to understand their water usage better and evaluate the effectiveness of their water reduction strategies.

Our series, Overlooked No More, aims to encourage you and your organization to support similar initiatives and implement strategies that help reduce water consumption and use it more efficiently. If we can help you in this endeavor, please contact us. In the interim, hopefully, we have provided you with some inspiration.

-Klaus

Urgent Action Needed to Ensure the World’s Supply of Fresh Water

Study Prepared by the UN Commission on the Economics of Water

Half the world’s population is currently grappling with a severe water scarcity crisis, according to a report from the Global Commission on the Economics of Water published in October 2024.  

The report warns that this alarming figure is only set to escalate as the climate crisis intensifies.

The report also highlighted the following:

  • More than 2 billion people lack safe drinking water, and 3.6 billion people – 44 percent of the world’s population – lack safe sanitation.

  • Tragically, every day, 1,000 innocent children lose their lives due to the lack of access to safe water. This heart-wrenching statistic underscores the urgent need for action.

  • Demand for fresh water is expected to outstrip supply by 40 percent in just six years.

  • Without action, by 2050, water problems will shave about 8 percent off global gross domestic product (GDP), with poorer countries, such as those in sub-Saharan Africa and parts of Asia, facing a 15 percent loss.

  • Over half of the world’s food production comes from areas experiencing unstable water availability trends - including areas of the United States.

The report also pointed out that two types of water serve the world:  

Green Water. Found in soil, this water is used by agriculture, plants, and soil microorganisms. When used by vegetation, it is released back into the atmosphere through the process of transpiration.  

Blue Water. This water comes from rainfall or the melting of snow.  

While the study focused on many other dark realities related to water, it also provided some answers and solutions, according to Klaus Reichardt, CEO and Founder of Waterless Co., Inc., a leading marketer of no-water urinals.  

According to Reichardt, the report concluded that we must reshape world economies so that water is allocated more equitably and used more efficiently, eliminating waste.

He also suggests that we should "begin with the end in mind when it comes to water, focusing on the desired outcome and then working backward to achieve it."

 

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

Top Eight Reasons Facilities Consider LEED Certification

LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) is the world's most widely used green building rating system. Every five years, the LEED program is reevaluated and updated by the US Green Building Council, the non-profit organization that manages the LEED certification program.

These updates, crucial to staying abreast of the latest environmental trends and regulations, are typically driven by changes in our environment and culture, and a growing need to conserve natural resources, particularly water.

They set a higher standard for facilities seeking LEED certification, encouraging organizations to take more significant steps towards sustainability and resource protection.

The latest LEED version, "v5," will be introduced in 2025. Because of this, many companies, building owners, developers, and managers are expected to give the latest version a close look. This is especially true of organizations planning construction projects, renovating existing buildings in 2025, or believing the time has come to become LEED-certified.

But what are the compelling reasons for an organization to pursue LEED certification? The benefits are numerous and significant. Among them are the following:

1.    Government incentives. Some cities and states offer rebates and tax benefits to LEED-certified facilities, especially if steps have been taken to reduce water consumption.

2.    Lower interest rates on construction loans. Banks may offer lower interest rates on construction and renovation loans for properties seeking LEED certification. Banks view these as safer investments.

3.    Address new rules and regulations. Both in the U.S. and especially in Western Europe, new rules and regulations are being put into place that put greater emphasis on sustainability, water efficiency, and environmental concerns. LEED-certified facilities typically can meet these new regulations and are often one step ahead of them.

4.    Culture of sustainability. Numerous organizations are adopting a "culture of sustainability." This is when all aspects of their business operations - from the vendors they work with to the products or services they offer – are taking steps to reduce consumption and protect natural resources.

5.    Happier employees. LEED-certified buildings have improved indoor air quality, typically because of the way they are cleaned and maintained. Further, there is much more emphasis on natural light and more open spaces. This contributes to happier employees and happier employees tend to be more productive and loyal to their employers.

6.    Long-term savings. While there was once a belief that LEED-certified buildings would be more expensive to build and operate, the reality is quite the opposite. These more efficient buildings typically have lower operating costs and energy and water bills, providing a sound financial investment overall.

7.    Real estate profitability. It is no secret that office buildings are struggling to attract tenants. However, LEED-certified facilities still maintain an edge over non-certified buildings. Potential tenants remain convinced that a LEED-certified facility tends to be better and more efficiently operated.

8.    Resilience. Compared to past versions, LEED v5 places much more emphasis on facility resilience. This is because changes in our climate are having a more significant impact on existing buildings. The two hurricanes in Florida are often used as an example. LEED v5 buildings are built to be more resilient and protective environments for building users.

Throughout, we’ve mentioned concerns about water and protecting this natural resource. This is because water scarcity is a growing global crisis. Further, droughts are becoming more frequent and severe, impacting communities globally.

However, for businesses, the truth is inescapable: water is their lifeblood.

If taps run dry, production lines freeze, employees go home, and revenue evaporates. While companies acknowledge mounting water crises, they're not just embracing water efficiency as a noble goal, they're recognizing it as the very oxygen they need for survival.

-Klaus

Water Efficiency is a Game Changer. 🏌️

Yet, many organizations overlook the simplest truth: you can’t manage what you can’t measure. ⚖

 Tracking water usage isn’t just about numbers. It’s about understanding patterns, identifying waste, and making informed decisions.

 ➡️Start with these practical steps:

 1. **Install Smart Meters**: These devices provide real-time data. They highlight leaks and inefficiencies before they become costly problems.

 2. **Conduct Regular Audits**: Schedule assessments to evaluate water usage across all operations. This helps pinpoint areas for improvement.

3. **Set Clear Goals**: Establish specific, measurable targets for water reduction. It creates accountability and drives progress.

4. **Engage Your Team**: Educate employees on the importance of water conservation. Empower them to contribute ideas and solutions.

5. **Leverage Proven Technologies**: Transfer to low-flow toilets, taps, aerators, and no-water urinals, all proven to improve water efficiency dramatically.

The bottom line? Measurement leads to accountability, and accountability drives change. Embrace a culture of water efficiency, and watch your organization thrive. 💧📊

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

 
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