While many people are working towards improving on their wastefulness and pollution, it is far from being a widespread practice despite the fact that water is essential to all life.  We must continue to educate and spread awareness of this ongoing problem which impacts all of humanity.  Researchers warn that if immediate action is not taken, that a major water shortage could occur in just a few decades, affecting billions of people.  The National Great Rivers Research and Education Center located in Illinois has a mission to study rivers and the ties to the communities that use them.  They have numerous workshops and camps as well as educational and outreach programs available to educate the public about our water resources.  Additionally, they host many community events providing free food and hands-on activities addressing many issues that our waterways face, such as plastic pollution.  They teach us how to maximize our Green Technology and energy efficiency through 100% recycled materials, and stormwater or wastewater recycling.  The NGRREC programs encourage teacher workshops and student field trips, where students can learn the effects of pollutants in our waterways. 

According to the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the average household can save thousands of gallons of water each year by taking small steps like turning off the water while we brush our teeth, using the appropriate level of water for loads of laundry, taking a shower instead of a bath, or fixing any water leak issues.  Purchasing Energy Star qualified appliances can be 10% more water efficient than standard models.  In our busy lives, we may not think of these small efforts that can potentially save our planet and future generations.  We need to start these practices at home with ourselves and our families.  Passing on these ideas to friends and neighbors can quickly turn from saving thousands of gallons of water in just our own homes, into potentially billions of gallons.

RESOURCES

The National Great Rivers Research and Education Center (2013).

            Retrieved May 29, 2019 http://www.ngrrec.org/About/

United States Environmental Protection Agency (2019).

            Retrieved May 29, 2019 https://www.epa.gov/environmental-topics/water-topics