Water Management
Water is a precious resource and vital to life but in many countries there are severe shortages that are only set to get worse as the effects of climate change become more apparent. Even in countries that do not suffer shortages, it is imperative we make concerted efforts to avoid wasting water since the chemicals and energy involved in purifying water for consumption all have a negative impact on the environment.
Reduce Water Consumption
- Install low-flow/water saving bathroom facilities
- Implement a towel re-use programme
- Use water efficient appliances
- Introduce procedures to reduce unnecessary water usage
- Educate staff and clients on saving water
WASTEWATER
If not treated adequately, wastewater is a pollutant and serious health risk and must be handled in a responsible manner and not expelled untreated into the ground or a water source whether it is grey or black. All wastewater must be treated to meet at least the minimum standard for the country of operation.
Grey Water
Grey water is water used in domestic activities such as showers, vegetable washing, hand washing and clothes washing. This type of wastewater does not contain a high pollutant load and can be treated to allow reuse.
Black Water
Black water is water which contains human waste from toilets and is a strong, and dangerous, pollutant which must be treated with utmost consideration to avoid polluting a water supply.
Reduce Water Consumption
- Reuse grey water for such things as toilet flushing or garden irrigation
- Harvest and use rainwater
Any evidence of mishandling black or grey water leading to the pollution of a water source will result in the business being excluded from the Responsible Tourism Reporting Initiative.
Energy Management