Wally’s Water Wisdom – Five Ways to be an Excellent Host to the Earth & Guests

Hi friends! December feels like it came by so quickly. The weather is getting chilly, lights are everywhere and the leaves are falling. While this season can be full of cheer, consider this a time to be mindful of water habits, too. 

If you’re a fan of this blog, you know I like to share a few water-wise reminders before the end of the year. If you’re new to the blog, I am happy to have you here and would love to encourage you to take these reminders into the holiday season. This year’s focus will be on being an excellent host to guests and a friend to the earth for upcoming get-togethers. By following these tips, you are one step closer to being a good environmental steward. You may be asking, “But Wally, what’s environmental stewardship?” In summary, environmental stewardship means you are responsibly protecting the natural environment. What’s my favorite resource to talk about? That’s right—WATER! Let’s talk about how you can be the best host in your home and our home (earth). 

Tip #1: Defrost meat in the refrigerator. 

Defrosting your turkey or chicken? Consider putting the meat in the refrigerator rather than running in under water. This small tip can help you save water when you host family or friends.

Tip #2: No “hosing” down the driveway.

Want to impress your guests with a clean driveway? I bet you do! Consider sweeping your driveway, instead of hosing it down. This small change can make a big difference in water usage and make you feel ready to host.

Tip #3: Run the dishwasher when you have a full load of dishes. 

After preparing a yummy meal for your guests, collect all plates at the end of the evening to run a full load of dishes. Running a full load of dishes instead of handwashing reduces water usage and can even reduce your time spent cleaning up after.

Tip #4: Rinse veggies and fruits in a pan.

When prepping your next meal, use a small pan of cold water to clean your favorite vegetables or fruits rather than letting water run over them. Then, collect the water you used for rinsing and reuse it for house plants. Your guests will enjoy your delicious meal, and your plants will thank you later.

Tip #5: Compost food scraps.

Are you planning on making a loaf of yummy banana bread or delicious eggnog for your friends and family to enjoy? Collect eggshells, bananas or other food scraps to make compost. Did you know that compost can be used as an alternative to fertilizer? That’s right! Even better, if you make your own compost, you will be reducing stormwater runoff of fertilizer and prevent water pollution.

With these five tips, I hope you can practice being a good environmental steward and friendly host during this cheerful season. As always, small actions can make a difference in saving water. See you all next year with more drops of water wisdom and happy holidays!

Your friend,

Wally