Water is a precious resource that is heavily impacted by residential
construction and the use of modern conveniences. Site clearing and
grading activities often produce erosion and polluted runoff. Urban
and suburban development
decreases the percentage of permeable surfaces, altering the ability
of the land to absorb and filter incoming rain and pollution. And,
as the population grows there is an ever-increasing demand for water.
Water Quality
Impacts
- In 1996, 40% of the nations' rivers, lakes and estuaries
assessed by states and tribes were found to be impaired.
Source: http://www.epa.gov/npdes/pubs/comguide.pdf
- Nonpoint sources of suspended solids contribute approximately
95% of the average daily loading of sediments to receiving
waters in the U.S. Source: http://www.stormwater-resources.com/
Stormwater Chemistry and Water Quality by Havey H. Harper
- Residential land uses have the highest "Event Mean
Concentrations" of pollutants in stormwater runoff.
Source: http://www.stormwater-resources.com/
Stormwater Chemistry and Water Quality by Havey H. Harper
Water Quantity
Considerations
- Pennsylvania has documented that in 1900, each resident
consumed approximately 5 gallons of water per day. By the
year 2000, they estimate that each resident consumed a staggering
62 gallons per day. Much of the increase is due to modern
conveniences of indoor plumbing (washing machines, toilets,
dishwashers, etc.) and exterior landscaping demands. Source:
http://www.dep.state.pa.us/dep/deputate/watermgt/wsm/facts/fs2631.htm
- Typical household water use in the 21st century includes
the following:
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With almost 1,600,000 residential construction projects a year,
many impacts can take place that endanger the quality of water and
set the stage for unnecessary drains on the quantity of water. Green
building practices can help to alleviate both water quality and
quantity concerns. Through design and construction activities the
builder can protect this resource and set the stage for long-term
conservation at the homesite.
Financial as well as environmental benefits result from designing
and constructing homes with water protection and conservation in
mind. A summary of benefits follows.
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Builder Benefits
- Avoid National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System
(NPDES) penalties
- Reduced material and labor costs by minimizing plumbing
and land clearing activities
- Increase marketing appeal
- Lessen strain on municipal services while improving community
relations, (this may save money in communities that charge
for community service impacts)
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Consumer Benefits
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| Guidelines For
Sustainable Water Use |
Two major impacts from residential construction and home use are
evident by the degradation of water quality and the large percentage
of water used for lawn and garden purposes as shown above. A third
major impact is wastewater: research indicates that a typical household
wastes between 8000 and 10,000 gallons of water a year while waiting
for hot water to arrive at the tap. Impacts to water quality and
quantity can be reduced through proactive design and construction
measures.
Site Preparation and Construction Activities:
- Design and construct building with minimal impact on site topography
and natural drainage ways; disturb only areas needed to install
foundations and roadways.
- Insure that existing (site or neighbors) and new wells are protected
(cased, sealed or grouted) from drainage and contamination.
- Design terrain to drain away from wellhead.
- Install anti-backsiphoning valves between well and water pipes.
- Contact the local building or planning department for sewer
hookup and the county or state Health Department for septic tank
or drainfield installation.
- Maintain a naturally vegetated buffer area adjacent to streams,
lakes, ponds and wetlands.
- Replace topsoil removed during construction; replant exposed
areas as soon as practical.
- Minimize impermeable materials for driveways, walkways and porches.
- Use silt fencing or biofiltration (permeable bags filled with
chips, compost or bales of straw) to control erosion during construction.
- Designate appropriate locations for washing vehicles and equipment
- away from surface waters, storm drains and slopes that could
erode, at carwash or at builders' shop with a sump.
- Sweep surfaces rather than spraying with water; dispose of sweepings
in trash instead of down drains.
- Immediately repair all equipment and vehicle leaks.
- Use biodegradable detergents and chemicals; minimize the amount
used.
Design for Indoor Conservation:
- Strategically place water heater close to point of use (reduces
materials and hot water waiting period), install on-demand water
heater, or an "on demand" recirculating pump that keeps
hot water at the tap.
- Buy high quality fixtures with replaceable parts.
- Capture greywater for toilet and irrigation; divert cool wastewater
from showers (prior to hot water arrival) for use in toilets.
- Consider air assisted or compost toilet.
- Choose low-flow equipment for toilet, shower, faucet.
- Choose water efficient appliances and equipment.
Design for Outdoor Conservation:
Staying Current
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