Water conservation is a crucial global issue, and Japan is one country that has taken significant steps towards saving water. With a population of over 126 million people, Japan has managed to reduce its water consumption from 16.8 billion m³ per year in 1980 to 10.3 billion m³ per year in 2018, which is a reduction of over 39%. The country has employed various strategies to conserve water, from using innovative technologies to adopting traditional methods. In this article, we will explore how Japan saves millions of gallons of water every year and what we can learn from them.
- Efficient Water Appliances
In Japan, most households use high-efficiency appliances like dishwashers, washing machines, and toilets that consume less water. For instance, the average toilet in Japan uses 4.8 liters of water per flush compared to 9 liters in the US. Besides, many Japanese washing machines reuse the rinse water for the next wash cycle, thus reducing the amount of water needed for laundry. These appliances are also designed to run on low water pressure, which makes them more efficient.
- Grey Water Recycling
Japan is a pioneer in greywater recycling, where water from sinks, showers, and washing machines is collected and treated for reuse. Many homes in Japan have a greywater recycling system that collects water from sinks and showers, filters and purifies it, and then redirects it for use in flushing toilets, watering plants, and washing clothes. The system reduces the amount of clean water needed for these activities, thus conserving water.
- Rainwater Harvesting
Rainwater harvesting is another method used in Japan to conserve water. Many homes and buildings have a rainwater harvesting system that collects water from roofs and stores it for later use. The collected water can be used for watering plants, flushing toilets, and other non-potable uses. The practice reduces the burden on the municipal water supply, especially during dry seasons when water is scarce.
- Public Education
Japan’s success in water conservation can also be attributed to the public’s awareness of the issue. The government has launched various public education campaigns to sensitize people on the importance of water conservation. The campaigns focus on water-saving tips, such as turning off the faucet while brushing teeth, taking shorter showers, and using efficient appliances. The campaigns have been successful, with many people adopting water-saving habits that have contributed to the overall reduction in water consumption.
- Traditional Practices
Japan has a rich culture that includes various traditional practices that promote water conservation. For instance, the country’s tea ceremony involves using minimal water to prepare tea, and the water is often reused for other activities. Besides, many Japanese homes have a furo, a traditional bath that uses a small amount of water. The bath is shared by family members, and the water is heated once and used for several people, thus conserving water.
- Smart Technology
Japan is known for its innovative technologies, and the water industry has not been left behind. The country has developed various smart technologies that help in water conservation. For instance, many public restrooms in Japan have sensors that detect when someone enters or exits the toilet, thus automatically flushing the toilet. The technology reduces water wastage, as the toilet only flushes when needed. Additionally, some public restrooms have a handwashing station that collects used water and purifies it for reuse in flushing the toilet.
Conclusion
Water conservation is a global challenge that requires collective effort to tackle. Japan is one country that has made significant strides in reducing water consumption through the adoption of various water conservation methods. From efficient water appliances to greywater recycling, rainwater harvesting, public education, traditional practices, and smart technology, Japan has shown that water conservation is achievable.