As we struggle with an energy shortage, another more serious shortage is looming. We are quickly running out of our most essential resource: drinkable water. For most of us, water is easily taken for granted, because it seems so freely available. In reality, South Africa is the 15th driest country, receiving nearly half the amount of rainfall as the rest of the world. By 2025, South Africa's demand for water is expected to exceed its supply. Water is essential for proper functioning of nearly every physiological process in our body. Without sufficient clean water, our health suffers quickly. Many efforts are being made to save water, but they all focus on reducing household consumption. However, household use only accounts for about 11% of total water consumption. The majority of our water is being used for agriculture. And more specifically, animal agriculture, both directly and indirectly. Meat and dairy production is a highly water-intensive industry, using 70% of global freshwater, according to the United Nations. For example, to produce just one hamburger, requires 2500 liters of water. If you shortened your shower by 2 minutes a day, it would take you four months to save the same amount of water. But if you don't eat any meat or dairy for just one day, you would save more than 2000 liters of water. Another bonus is that your health will also benefit as a result. Most people believe that meat and dairy consumption are essential for healthy living, so the extra water being used is seemingly justified. In reality, many studies are showing that consuming more plant foods and minimal to no animal foods, is much healthier. According to the American Journal of Medicine in 2014,
"A whole foods, plant-based diet low in refined carbohydrates and animal products has been proven to reverse coronary heart disease and confer potent protection against type 2 diabetes and cancer." While these diseases are three of the world's leading killers, this is just the tip of the iceberg as far as the benefits of a plant-based diet. So in effect, we are using up our most precious resource simply for our enjoyment, but to the detriment of not only our environment, but also our health. Fortunately, you can still enjoy your meals, while improving your health and well-being, and also conserve water. While it may sound challenging, the potential consequences are life threatening for all life on Earth. In nearly 17 years of not consuming meat and almost no dairy, I have indirectly saved over 10 million liters of water and enjoyed the health benefits along the way. Fortunately, more and more people around the world are following this same path. All it takes is an open mind and a more compassionate way of thinking and living, before it's too late.
For more information:
http://www.waterwise.co.za/site/water/environment/situation.html
http://www.realsimple.com/home-organizing/green-living/things-save-water/eat-one-more-vegetarian-meal-week
http://environment.nationalgeographic.com/environment/freshwater/embedded-water/
http://www.latimes.com/food/dailydish/la-dd-gallons-of-water-to-make-a-burger-20140124-
story.html
http://www.vrg.org/environment/water_brochure.php
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/24754969
