Reducing water waste while improving tenant comfort

Water is a precious resource that will become more limited as temperatures increase and climates change around the world. Droughts and water shortages, as well as flooding, are nothing new. While Canada has an abundant freshwater supply, did you know only 9 per cent is considered renewable and only 2.5 per cent is easily accessible?

About 90 percent of Canadians live along the southern border while much of the freshwater flows north toward Hudson’s Bay and the Arctic Ocean, putting it out of reach for most people. Water is an invaluable part of our daily lives, and we need to treat it that way. We need water to stay hydrated and clean, prepare meals, produce goods or electricity, and much more.

While we have access to clean water, it comes at a cost, both to the environment and to us. Toronto Community Housing (TCHC) is committed to reducing its water consumption through equipment upgrades and repairs across our building portfolio. This is done to improve tenants’ comfort and well-being at home as well as save water and money. TCHC is installing new water equipment like water aerators, low-flow showerheads, and toilets. These features are designed to use about 40 per cent less water than regular fixtures and toilets.

The Conservation team at TCHC has developed a series of educational materials, including a video animation, to provide more information and tips for reducing water use.

The video animation below shows where TCHC gets water from, how we use it in our daily lives, what water equipment is installed in TCHC buildings, and how we can conserve water and prevent its waste.

Are you wondering how you can contribute to reducing water waste?

Follow these tips to reduce water consumption and help TCHC in its conservation efforts. A small change can make a big difference!

• Turn off the tap when brushing your teeth, soaping your hands, or soaping dishes.
• Report any leaks to the Client Care Centre at 416-981-5500 or your building superintendent.
• Always run a full load of clothes in the washing machine and use a cold water cycle.
• Take a shower instead of a bath. Showers use about half the water a bath does.
• Do not use a water hose to clean your car, sidewalk, or your balcony. Carwash and sweeping are conservation options.
• Do not flush cigarette butts, baby and facial wipes, cotton buds, floss, bandages, condoms, diapers, medicine, or cat litter. These items can clog your toilet.
• Carry a reusable water bottle and refill it when possible, instead of buying plastic water bottles.

To learn more about conservation initiatives and programs, please visit the Conservation webpage or email us at conservation@torontohousing.ca. If you would like the Conservation team to come and talk in your community about conservation and environmental issues, volunteer with the team at community cleanups, and more, let us know.