Sustainability: business, life, environment

Did you know that each time you wash your car, an average of 80-140 gallons of water are used?  Many of our clients in our sustainability consulting practice are surprised to learn that fact.
 
Interestingly enough, few people realize that washing cars in our driveways is one of the most environmentally un-friendly eco actions we can take.    As we explain in our personal consulting, unlike household waste water that enters sewers or septic systems and undergoes treatment before it is discharged into the environment, when you wash your car in the driveway or street, contaminants such as grease, brake dust, and the detergent itself flows into storm sewers, which discharges directly into our waterways. 
 
Contrary to popular belief, commercial car washes, are required to drain their water into sanitary sewers (which direct sewage to treatment facilities) or to filter and reuse it on-site.
 
Fortunately, we educate our clients on water issues  and encourage them to implement the sustainability concept of water reduction.  However, for the newcomers to eco friendly car washing, here are a few tips.
 

• Don't wash your car.
• Consider switching to a waterless car wash.
• Wash on gravel, grass, or another permeable surface.
• Use a water-saving hose nozzle.  Select a nozzle with an automatic shut-off valve so that water is not continuing to flow as you wash.
• Select the right soap. Choose a biodegradable soap that is chlorine- and phosphate-free. Phosphates encourage algae bloom when they enter water and reduce oxygen levels for other aquatic species.
• Opt for reusable towels.  Swap paper towels for re-usable microfiber towels.

As a sustainability consultant, I encourage clients to use water wisely.  Habits with eco awareness lead to sustainable living and a healthier environment.