Drinking Water Week Reminds Consumers To Value Precious Water Supplies

As Drinking Water Week continues, the American Water Works Association and water professionals across North America are appreciating the value of our precious water supply by focusing on how much water is needed and used in the production of everyday items such as food and clothing.

The water community is committed to the idea that by fully understanding the value of water, more can be done to protect it. For example, according to data provided by the Value of Water Coalition,

• 40 percent of water is used in agriculture to grow foods to eat and beverages to drink
  • 32 gallons of water is needed to make one glass of wine
  • 19 gallons of water yields one apple
  • 1,230 gallons of water is necessary for the production of one beef steak

• 46 percent of water is consumed in manufacturing products to buy
  • 700 gallons of water is needed to manufacture one t-shirt
  • 2,100 gallons of water produces just one pair of leather shoes
  • 40,000 gallons of water is needed to manufacture a single car

“When we truly grasp how much water goes into the production of our everyday foods and products, it’s easy to see how valuable our water supply is,” said AWWA Chief Executive Officer David LaFrance. “Once we understand the value of water, we can do more to protect such a precious resource.”

More information about the value of water and our water footprint is available on the Value of Water Coalition’s website.

About Drinking Water Week
For more than 35 years, AWWA and its members have celebrated Drinking Water Week – a unique opportunity for both water professionals and the communities they serve to join together to recognize the vital role water plays in our daily lives. For more information, visit (http://www.awwa.org/resources-tools/public-affairs/public-affairs-events/drinking-water-week.aspx)

About The American Water Works Association
Established in 1881, the American Water Works Association is the largest nonprofit, scientific and educational association dedicated to managing and treating water, the world’s most important resource. With approximately 50,000 members, AWWA provides solutions to improve public health, protect the environment, strengthen the economy and enhance our quality of life.