May 11, 2005

Did you know that a typical household uses approximately 260 gallons of water per day. In the summer, the amount of water used outdoors by a household can exceed the amount used for all other purposes in the entire year? According to the U.S. Geological Survey, 30% of the daily water consumption in the U.S. is devoted to outdoor uses. The majority of this is used for landscaping, given that the typical suburban lawn consumes 10,000 gal. of water above and beyond rainwater each year.

In order to address this pressing environmental problem, EPA is increasing its attention on water efficiency. A key area of focus is landscaping and irrigation, where using existing technologies and practices can reduce water use while maintaining healthy and beautiful landscapes, and saving money for consumers. We are also investigating ways to promote water-efficiency in landscape design and maintenance. We are also seeking to promote water-efficient products and practices in other areas, such as indoor water use in residences and commercial buildings. More information is available on EPA’s Water Efficiency website, www.epa.gov/owm/water-efficiency.

Source: U.S. Environmental Protection Agency   May 11, 2005