Page 57 - Project 29

Install rainwater tanks in
your home

• You could do a bulk-buy of water tanks for your group to capture rainwater.

• Here’s one option where you can buy some online.

Buy a 5-star rated front loader
washing machine

These use about two thirds less water than a traditional top loader.

Understanding the labels

“The WELS label, or Water Efficiency Labelling and Standards Scheme, allows
you to compare the water efficiency of different products on the market. Keep
an eye out for any water-reliant product. The more stars on the label the better!”.
Smart Approved WaterMark is Australia’s outdoor water saving labelling program
for stuff that helps to reduce water use at home. “Products and services with
the Smart Approved WaterMark label have been assessed by an independent
technical expert panel. So look out for the Smart Approved WaterMark label when
you’re shopping to be sure that what you’re buying really will save you water.” 42

Reducing water pollution

These actions don’t have an impact on your carbon emissions but they reduce water pollution in Canberra: 43

• Use a sink strainer in the kitchen.

• Remove autumn leaves from your gutters and compost them (this eases up pollution flowing into our
wetlands and lakes).
• Chuck tissues and other rubbish in the bin, not the toilet. This way you don’t run the risk of clogging the
pipes, and they don’t pollute the waterways. An easy way to start doing this is to put a small bin next to
each toilet in the house.
• wash your car over grass or at a facility which recycles the water

In your group, have a brief chat about each action and then choose the ones you want to tackle and by
when – write them down on the next page.

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