Water Conservation, very common two words, right? But, have you ever stressed upon these, ever turned them into deeds?
Water is essential for life on Earth to exist. However, misusing it results in a decrease in its capacity to fulfil this fundamental need for us. Water is a limited resource. Earth is a self-contained environment, but the planet’s water supply has remained constant over time. The population increase strains water resources. Additionally, human-caused pollution and contamination diminish the availability of pure water.
What is Water Conservation?
Water conservation actually means using the available water supply judiciously, sustainably and saving it for further generations by forbidding its unnecessary wastage. It is the responsibility of each and every resident of the Mother Earth.
This blue colored life supporting element is of high concern. The composition of water on Earth is 71%, we all know it from the very early stage of our life. Still, people think infinite times before conserving it. Only 3% of water is freshwater out of which only 0.5% is fit for consumption because 97% is salty water which makes the oceans, lakes, rivers. The rest 2.5% is in the form of glaciers, lost in the atmosphere or is severely polluted.
Why Water Conservation?
Read out some reasons why we all should care for our natural water resources. We bet you can’t agree more.
1. No buying of water: We will not have to buy bottled water if there is plenty of drinking water available. After water, the air is on sale too. Let’s limit this trend of selling air and water.
2. Save the soil: The main reason for drought is lack of rain. It renders the soil infertile and damages crops as the rain does not return back to the same spot in the same quantity. Let’s allow the soil to retain enough water for its good health.
3. Save energy: Pumping the water to each house and high rise apartments needs loads of energy. So, in this way you can also reduce the carbon footprint and help preserve our environment as well as contribute in water conservation.
4. Save your money: You will be charged less money on your bill from the water company if there is plenty of water to use. We humans are the only one that can restrict prices of water from soaring.
5. Save it for recreational purposes: It’s so much fun to visit water parks with exciting water rides. But, have you thought if water goes below its actual level you might not be able to enjoy these rides. Yes, you read that right . Water parks exist due to enough availability of water, once the level goes extremely down water will not be used for recreational purposes.
6. Save it for our children: Don’t let our further generations starve for water. We have borrowed this Earth from our generations, so it becomes our responsibility to return it to them in the most beautiful form. So, water conservation to the rescue.
How Water Conservation?
Repair leaking taps: The most common and compulsory way of preventing unnecessary water wastage. Repair the taps as soon as you notice leakage.
Rainwater Harvesting: One of the most traditional ways of saving water is rainwater harvesting. Rain water harvesting is the collection and storage of rainwater that runs off from roof tops, parks, roads, etc. This water runoff can be either stored or recharged into the groundwater.
The water purifier waste: The wastewater that is flown out from the RO systems at your homes can be fed to the plants, used for cleaning or for washing utensils. In this way, the wastewater can be put to a good use.
The other waste water: Vegetables, fruits, rice and other cereals need a clean wash before they are consumed. So what do you do with the water that you used for washing the dirt out of these? I am one hundred percent sure that it is thrown away into the sink. But, now onwards, think before you let it flow down the sink. Water your plants with the same water. This will definitely help cut the water wastage at your home.
There are hundreds of more ways to conserve water, like, don’t run the tap while brushing/shaving, use a bucket to shower and wash vehicles, avoid cleaning driveways using water until very necessary and much more uncountable ways.
KEY FACTS ABOUT WATER
50–65 percent of an adult’s body is made up of water. On average, they are between 57 and 60 percent. While newborns have a greater percentage.
The element that is present in all three states: Liquid, solid and gas.
It is a universal solvent.
World Water Day is observed on March 22 every year.
There is only a limited amount of water present on Earth. The same is recycled repeatedly for it to be reusable, so that we do not run out of water completely. Get brief into the water cycle.
It is no surprise that plants are totally dependent on water for their growth. They make up the basic life support for every living being on Earth. So, no water means no greenery which brings along other obstacles too.
The energy produced by falling water from the dam helps build electric energy which lights up each and every home.
Water aids in regulating Earth’s temperature.
42% of land area is covered by drought in India.
Cucumber has 95% of water.
The Takeaway
Due to pollution, people are notably cutting back on their water usage. As well as other pollutants. Additionally, we are poisoning rivers with substances like fertilizer and oil, harming all aquatic life on Earth. These eventually find their way to the ocean. Without access to freshwater, one will perish quickly. Water is life, which is a morbid but basic fact that helps make the point. The most effective, economical, and environmentally responsible way to reduce water consumption is through water conservation.
Water is a worldwide concern, thus we must all work together. Additionally, it is crucial that we conserve as much water as we can. If not for us, then for the generations after us, and if not for our generation, then for the Earth and the world in which we live. Even while spreading awareness looks easy, it is quite difficult to accomplish. Undoubtedly, starting it in our homes, with ourselves, is the simplest. Let’s take the initiative to start conserving as a group rather than waiting for someone else to do it.
Most importantly, we need to make sure that everyone understands how crucial water is. That is the bare minimum we can do to conserve water. The pledge of conserving water has to be taken as early as possible, otherwise this planet will have no water at all. Let’s make it a lifestyle, this is indeed a good practice. Water conservation must start from your very own place, then step out to help the world conserve,
We are building a community of like minded people who have the urge and willingness to save our natural water resources. The WICCI Council is heading towards its aim of saving water with a vision of clean and pure water for everyone. Join us in this mission of Water Conservation.
Tell us in the comment section, what are the ways that you adopt to conserve water. Tell the world that you are giving back to Mother Nature.
Triveni-Wondering what the title means? Let’s discover.
“Triveni ” is when neem (Azadirachta indica), peepal (Ficus religiosa), and bohar (Ficus benghalensis) grow together in a pit. When they reach up to a height of 6-7 feet, they are made to meet together from their trunk.
DIRECTIONS: PEEPAL is planted in North, Neem in East and Bohar in South direction.
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Banyan/Bohar Tree
Neem Tree
Peepal Tree
It is said to be a folktale and is also of ecological importance. It is surely not an ordinary tree as it has a great spiritual significance. Planting Triveni is a virtuous and fortunate deed.
Why the need for Triveni?
• Ecological Importance
The trio produces a large amount of oxygen and purifies the environment efficiently. Triveni plantation means purification of the environment.
It prevents soil erosion, improves soil fertility and structure, helps in attracting rains, and has many medicinal values too.
It is said that Peepal and banyan trees release oxygen at night also. Amazing, right? This is due to a special photosynthesis process called Crassulacean Acid Metabolism (CAM).
• Spiritual Importance
It is said that bohar, neem and peepal are the humble abode of Lord Brahma (cosmic creator), Vishnu (preserver), and Mahesh (destroyer), respectively. The ancient worshiping practice of these trees has been mentioned in Mahabharta. By serving or planting it, all Gods are said to be worshipped. A sense of elation gushes out of the mother Earth after this fortunate practice is performed. It is surrounded by a highly positive aura.
It finds a mention in the holy scripture- Guru Granth Sahib which says ‘One tree, a hundred blessings’.
Why are we reaching out to you?
These Trees are huge so they require a lot of space which is the reason for their depleting number. These are planted in public places with huge space around and before the onset of the rainy season. We are now left with limited space due to increased urbanization.
Do we have an alternate solution for a limited space?
Each one of us has the potential to do it, especially our smart youth who has the outgrowing ability and power to change the future of our Earth and the human race and set us free from ailments. It’s our very duty to not let the planet die. Let’s not find resources on other planets instead let’s make it the beauty of all.
The takeaway
Survival without trees is unimaginable even in dreams. Since our childhood, we have demanded endlessly from our Mother nature who has nurtured us unconditionally like our mothers. So, she deserves the same love, care, and respect which is in the form of green activities like planting trees, minimizing waste, use of water and electricity, and managing pollution. In short, the more we do, the less it is. Saving nature will not cost us anything but will in turn spread happiness and revive the natural habitat of the wild.
If we all survive this pandemic, I hope we all will remember that when it happened, we didn’t fight for the land nor a luxurious life. When all of this has been concluded, we’ll remember that we fought for the means of our survival- Air
The fight today is for survival and greenery is the only saviour as it keeps both humans and earth healthy. This green mission needs your big support and a helping hand. We need to start now to wake up to a bright future. Join us towards this cause by filling up the below-given google form to tell us when and where you will plant Triveni.
We live in a world ruled by technology and we are nothing but slaves to this world. Have you ever imagined how these beloved gadgets of yours are slowly killing you at your back?
Electric and magnetic fields (EMFs) are invisible areas of energy, often referred to as radiations. Excessive radiations are the root cause of various health ailments, like- allergies, risk of cancer, stress, and neurological disorders.
According to the World Health Organization’s International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC), EMFs are “possibly carcinogenic to humans.” The IARC believes that some studies show a possible link between EMFs and cancer in people.
Symptoms of EMF exposure
According to some scientists, EMFs can affect the body’s nervous system function and cause harm to cells. Cancer and unusual growths may be one symptom of very high EMF exposure. Other symptoms may include:
• headache
• tiredness and fatigue
• dysesthesia (an itchy sensation)
• changes in memory
• dizziness
• irritability
• restlessness and anxiety
• sleep disturbances, including insomnia
• depression and depressive symptoms
• loss of appetite and weight loss
• nausea
• lack of concentration
• changes in an electroencephalogram (which measures electrical activity in the brain)
• skin burning and tingling
But, we don’t yet know enough about its effects on human health and have insufficient evidence. Further research in the next years may clear all our doubts.
Well, there is a way out of this ferocious circle. How many of you are aware of t anti-radiation plants? Yes, you read it right. Some miraculous plants are a boon to today’s human era. As the name anti-radiation describes them well, these contribute by absorbing the electromagnetic radiations emitted by our dear gadgets and purify the air inside a room.
What’s more? Plants absorb carbon dioxide and return oxygen, boost immunity and metabolism. Keeping them around, help in lowering stress levels and headache frequency.
Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, every task has taken an online route which means more exposure to dangerous rays. So, place a plant in near vicinity to minimize the harmful effects.
List of plants that eliminate radiations
Let’s have a look at the list of plants that absorb these harmful radiations:
• Stone lotus flower
This plant does not demand daily watering, twice in a week is more than sufficient. It gives your workplace an aesthetic look and a nice smell. It’s not only beautiful but also eliminates radiations. It is easy to care for.
• Spider plant
It is effective in improving air quality by reducing the toxins to a considerable amount ( NASA recommended). It is highly in demand and gives a great look to the place. It is effective in absorbing nuclear radiations, speeds the recovery of patients, maintains indoor humidity, and reduces stress.
• Aloe Vera
It is very well known for its skin, hair, and medicinal benefits. We bet you would have never thought that it could act as an anti-radiator. Well, this is the truth about this multi-specialty succulent.
it is a natural laxative, it can fight breast cancer, it can keep your skin hydrated and can lower your blood sugar levels.
• Rubber plant
This beautiful indoor plant absorbs high-frequency radiations when kept beside your gadgets. It acts as an effective air purifying plant and is known for its radioactive properties. It requires less maintenance. other benefits;
1. decreased chances of getting allergies
2. promotes stomach health
3. natural analgesic
• Cactus
In 2005, NASA conducted a home-based study and found that at least five plants commonly planted in-house at home or in offices can significantly absorb EMF radiations from electronic devices such as computers and phones – and cactus was one of them. Placing even a small cactus can reduce harmful radiation and purify the air. To elaborate;
1. it is an antiviral
2. has neuroprotective properties- a 2014 study found that it can protect nerve cells
3. high in antioxidants- a 2013 study found that the cactus is able to reduce oxidative stress.
4. regulates blood sugar levels- A 2012 study recommends that taking nopal cactus together with other diabetes medications helps regulate blood sugar.
5. It may reduce cholesterol- as suggested by a study, cactus can reduce cholesterol and also the LDL levels
6.can eliminate hangovers- A 2004 study proved that nopal cactus extract significantly reduces the severity of hangovers when consumed before drinking.
• English Ivy
Ivy is one of the best absorbers of radiation available. It can absorb up to 90% of benzene in the air within 24 hours. It eliminates carbon dioxide, carbon monoxide, and formaldehyde. Make sure not to overwater your ivy. Its Flavonoids help in removing toxins from the body, tightening and strengthening blood vessels, reduce allergies and modulate enzymes to help your body.
• Betel leaf plant
Because of its hydroxyl and superoxide scavenging properties, it can eliminate the radioactive components from the air and also it absorbs harmful gases too. what’s more;
1. it eases constipation
2. excellent analgesic
3. improves digestion
4. reduces respiratory problems
• Asparagus fern
It has well-known antioxidant properties that help to defend against the damage caused by exposure to gamma radiation.
With a very wonderful fragrance, it has the power to absorb electromagnetic radiations in a room. Ferns have been ranked 9th in the air purifying list of NASA.
• Mustard greens
You must have seen this plant going outdoors but it makes a perfect indoor plant too. It defends against the damage caused due to oxidative stress.
The amount of radiation will greatly reduce and you could breathe in pure air. They are also high in vitamin A, C, and beta-carotene. Hence, they are not only nutritional and delicious but also great at absorbing radiations.T
This plant may improve heart health, could boost immunity, may have anti-cancer effects, rich in disease-fighting antioxidants, and is an excellent source of vitamin K.
• Snake plant
This plant is known to be very effective in converting carbon dioxide into oxygen. It can improve your lung health. If you cannot find cactus, opt for this plant. It can be planted in any type of pot and requires less maintenance.
It absorbs CO2 at night also, is effective against allergies, and is Vastu and Feng shui friendly.
Radiations travel in a straight line, so keep that in mind when setting up your plant, and make sure not to block the path with other items. do not keep anything between your gadget and the plant as it may affect their ability to absorb the radiations.
Gift your family and employees a pure breathing experience by creating a radiation-free home and office.
We can play our part by leaving our phones in another room while sleeping and using ear buds or speaker mode when on a call. In addition to this, we recommend you to cut down the time spent with your gadgets and try spending a moment relishing nature.
Is your love for gardening fading away due to limited space in your high rise apartment or your home? Do not worry!! Vertical gardening is the solution for your problem. Vertical gardening is a virtuous recourse for people who want save space; these are easy to maintain as they are easy to reach without bending; a large diversity of plants can be maintained within it.
Where can these be grown?
Car parking, inside office buildings, along lane ways or rooftops.
why to install a vertical garden
No doubt, these gardens have an aesthetic merit but most supremely they do good to the environment as well. Here are some of the benefits;
FOOD Security
• Due to the corona virus crisis, the fear of food shortage is now residing in everyone’s mind. We are dependent on farmers for the same but we can grow most of our food in our homes as a safety measure. Vertical gardens produce healthy and clean harvest. • Small fruits, vegetables and herbs can be grown very easily without the use of pesticides. • It is a safe way of gardening as it minimizes the risk of pest attack. • Food grown vertically is much prettier than the crops grown on ground. The fruits grow straight when trellised, since gravity pulls them down. Plus, there won’t be an ugly yellow spot on heavier vegetables and you get gorgeous vegetables.
Environmental Benefits
• Vertical gardening helps to reduce the carbon dioxide footprint of a building by filtering pollutants and carbon dioxide out of the air which also benefits those living nearby due to improved air quality. • Exterior wall vertical gardens also help to reduce heat absorption, which can result in significant energy savings in areas where people rely on air–conditioning during the warmer parts of the year. • These gardens can significantly help to reduce Urban Heat Island Effect and smog. • The waste produced in our house can be reused for the same, such as- plastic bottles, old shoe organizers, baskets, broken ladder, etc. • Indoor plants improve inner air quality by removing VOCs(Volatile organic compounds) and other harmful toxins. • It acts as natural sound proofing barrieras the vegetated surface blocks high frequency sounds. • Create a microclimate– you can insulate your home from heat, air pollution or noise by designing a living natural shield. This also helps to regulate temperature.
Physiological Benefits
Professor Virginia Lohr of Washington State University found in a study, that plants reduce the physical signs of stress. Dr. Lohr discovered that people working in an environment with plants present were 12% more productive and less stressed than those who worked in an environment without plants.
There are numerous other studies that highlight the positive impact of green spaces upon human well being. Honeyman 1987 found that buildings that feature and promote access to vegetation have a greater positive human health impact than those without. Green buildings have even been shown to increase post-operative recovery rates in medical facilities .
Economic Benefits
• Increase foot traffic in retail spaces as green walls create spaces that people want to spend time in. • Provide thermal insulation. As green walls provide insulation to buildings there is less demand upon power, saving cash as well as reducing the amount of polluting by-products that are released into the atmosphere. • Vertical gardens both insulate and cool buildings, providing a kind of safety blanket that protects the building from the elements, saving money on repairs in the long run. • Vertical gardens require the expertise of professionals from a variety of disciplines including landscape architects, architects, irrigation consultants and more helps create local jobs.
Why do we have missions to Mars but not to Mercury? Mostly because there’s some anticipation that Mars can support life, whereas, Mercury can’t. This is because the daytime temperature on Mercury reaches to 430 degree Celsius, probably hot enough to melt lead and during night it cools down to -183 degree Celsius, cold enough to liquefy oxygen.
Now the questions arise; why are we even planning to live on some other planet? Is earth not enough? Are we so greedy that the millions of resources which are helping us survive will happen to totally exhaust one day? Or we are really finding a planet to ensure the survival of our next generation?
There are many questions but with scanty answers.
Human beings often forget that we are completely dependent on Mother Nature and become ignorant towards caring for it. But the Covid-19 lockdown is healing the planet in a way never seen before in living history! Well, it’s too early to tell if these transitions will last forever. Experts say, the environment would suffer once the quarantine measures are lifted and industries would work double the time to make for what they have lost.
There is no doubt, the COVID restrictions have impacted the environment positively.
According to a survey, China’s nitrogen level has dropped by 30% after the lockdown started in January as the industries and cars (the primary producers of N02) were brought to a stop. A research found that the coal consumption fell by 40%. Also, China’s Ministry of Ecology and Environment reported a decrease in chemicals, phosphorus and ammonia in the country’s surface water during this period.
The fear of food shortage is another aspect that is slowly bringing the world to its knees. This pandemic has taught one important lesson, ‘Grow your own food’. Look around you and find spaces that could be filled with food. But the real interest in urban farming will only show once the lockdown is over. There have been reports of panic buying during the lockdown. Food shortages are predicted to cause violent and unrest – a senior economist at FAO said.
Plants are growing better because there is cleaner air and water and because of less human interference.
What’s happening in India?
The number of flamingoes has increased in Mumbai as a result of lockdown. The birds normally migrate to the Navi Mumbai area every year but there is a massive increase in their numbers this year.
Air quality- India has also observed a drastic change, a positive one, in the air quality. The sky seems cleaner now. Even the birdsong seems much louder. Delhi, the most polluted city is now breathing in fresh air after a long time.
Water quality– since there are no boats, whether they be fishing or pleasure ones, plying on the rivers and waterways, the water has cleared up. No doubt, because of the lesser human footfall even the oceans are recovering. The critically endangered, Ganges River dolphinsare back after 30 years just because of less water pollution near Kolkata Ghats.
Ganga river is now fit for drinking,. Water from Har-ki-Pauri in Haridwar was tested and the results reveal that the water here is ‘fit for drinking after chlorination’, for the first time in decades. Water quality improved tremendously in the upstream but downstream Varanasi has seen very little change,” said a CPCB scholar working on the Clean Ganga project.
Effect on wildlife- lockdown has seen a decline in fishing, which means that the fish biomass will increase after over fishing almost, depleted it.
With less fear of busy streets and humans trapped indoors, animals are returning to roam around their urbanized habitats. In many cities with busy freeways, less vehicles on the road also means less road killing of these animals.
So, overall there is a positive impact on environment with COVID restrictions. It teaches us a lesson that If we all work together and responsibly, we can make these improvements permanent and there will be no need to plan expensive missions to other planet when we have lots to do here.
The conclusion is, we can save Earth for our future generations by using the resources wisely. Earth has abundant of resources which can make our lives easy and happy.
