At the time of writing, there’s been a lot in the media about drought concerns again this year. The large water users have worked on agreements to reduce usage. Canada of course is blessed with a huge number of freshwater resources. However, as a country, we also use more water per capita than almost every other country in the world. That statistic should make us pause… As water resources get scarcer, we should be rethinking about the incredible value of this important resource.
The City of Calgary is working towards 350 litres per person per day as a target. However, even if our per capita usage keeps decreasing, as Calgary’s population grows, so does the demand for water and wastewater treatment. This usage target was set years ago for the year 2033, and likely needs a review in light of changes in both population growth and river water flows. We’re all going to have to do our part going forward and look for ways to reduce our collective and individual water usage.
In 2021, the average day’s demand in Calgary was 362 litres per person per day. For comparison, Copenhagen in Denmark is well on its way towards its target of 100 litres per person per day. In the theme of our 2024 armchair travel, let’s review some of their innovative practices.
Copenhagen is considered a global leader in sustainable water management, with its commitment to water conservation, efficient wastewater treatment and the integration of green infrastructure. One of its key policies focuses on rainwater harvesting, through the concept of “blue green” infrastructure, capturing rainwater and using it for a variety of purposes. The widespread use of green roofs, with vegetation on rooftops, absorbs rainwater, reduces runoff, and also provides additional insulation for buildings. The stored rainwater is then used for irrigation, toilet flushing and street cleaning, for example, to reduce municipal water supply requirements.
Copenhagen has also prioritized water conservation and efficiency, including stringent regulations and incentives for both residents and businesses regarding water-saving practices, including promotion of water-efficient appliances and fixtures along with public awareness campaigns. Significant investment in advanced water treatment technologies protects water bodies, ecosystems, and human health.
Back home in Calgary, let’s look at some ways we can reduce water usage. Replacing toilets and other fixtures with low-flow versions can make a large difference if you haven’t already done so. The City’s YardSmart website (calgary.ca/yardsmart) provides useful information to help us locally. Easy-to-read material includes ensuring you have good-quality soil, choosing garden plants wisely, adding mulch to gardens, and also include advice for watering tips and ways to support pollinators. In addition, information related to drought and how to reduce drought impacts can be found at https://www.calgary.ca/environment/climate/climate-hazards–drought.html. Please access the City of Calgary’s website for lots of useful tips!
If you want to get involved to help make Mount Pleasant a greener community please email [email protected] for more information. Please check out the Mount Pleasant Green Initiative Group on Facebook, found on the Mount Pleasant Community Association page.
Picture from City of Calgary YardSmart brochure – Design for Full Sun (in partnership with Calgary Horticultural Society). See Calgary.ca/yardsmart.
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