Water Wise
A concern for resource efficiency combined with rising rates have given birth to Water Wise, an add on to the NOLA Wise program.
Water Wise is committed to improving water management within New Orleans by helping to make homes and gardens more water efficient, saving building-owners additional resources and money AND reducing street flooding. It will provide resources that make it easy for home and business owners to install water saving and management measures, addressing water conservation inside the home or business as well as storm water management, which is so important to New Orleans. Click on the headings below for info sheets about how to save water!
Water Conservation
The average New Orleans household consumes 12,600 gallons of water per month and spends approximately $500 per year on sewage and water bills, a number that is set to double by 2020. This usage can be reduced by up to 40% with the addition of water saving fixtures and appliances. NOLA Wise contractors are equipped to upgrade or replace fixtures such as toilets, faucets, and showerheads to use less water without compromising performance. They can also change out old, wasteful dishwashers and washing machines to save both energy and water. Converting these fixtures and appliances will stabilize and lower water bills in the face of annual rate hikes. They will also save on energy bills because less water needs to be pumped and heated.
Tips for indoor water conservation can be found here.
A large portion of water is used and wasted outdoors. Tips for outdoor water conservation can be found here.
Storm Water Management
Storm water run-off is the biggest contributor to poor water quality as sediment, debris, and other pollutants are picked up by water before going down a storm drain. Use of storm water Best Management Practices (BMPs) like rain barrels and bioswales significantly decreases run-off and accumulation of pollutants in our water bodies, thereby enhancing the Orleans Parish watershed by improving water quality and increasing resistance to flooding. Water Wise will offer building owners a resource guide and directory with information on local nonprofits and businesses who work in storm water management, as well as do-it-yourself methods for installation of green roofs, rain gardens, and rain barrels.
A Resource Guide with local businesses and organizations who can help with storm water management projects at your home will be available soon!
To learn more about creating an energy and water efficient home, contact Global Green’s NOLA Wise program at 504-523-WISE (9473), This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. .
