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Re: How Much Water Does Xeriscaping Conserve?
2010-03-23 10:29:37 UTC
Hi,
The largest study of xeriscape water savings for residential property was done in Las Vegas NV. More than 700 properties were monitored for five years (1995-2000). The study also cites a number of other similar studies. This study was important because it was a "study in the wild," measuring the results of homeowners with very little intervention. The property owners were given just a few minimum standards, allowing them broad discretion to choose thier own materials, designs and planting densities. These variables were accounted for in the monitoring phase.
In our case, the average water savings for homeowners who converted lawns to water efficient landscapes was 75% (which was 55.8 gal/sf/yr).
Since completion of the study, more than 40,000 projects, comprising 145 million square feet, have been completed through our incentive program. A pre/post analysis of the first 20,000 of those participants yielded near-identical results as the initial study. We estimate our 40,000 projects conserve more than 8 billion gallons, 52 million kWh and 25,000 metric tons of CO2 discharge annually.
We are always eager to share and encourage others to visit us to see the program first-hand.
http://www.snwa.com/html/cons_wsl_xeriscape.html
DougĀ Bennett
Conservation Manager
Southern Nevada Water Authority
United States
www.snwa.com -
Can Efficient Devices Erode Efficient Behaviors?
2009-07-08 11:05:17 UTC
I have heard of studies that show that when people are given more efficient products, they may use that as a rationale to weaken or abandon efficient behaviors. For example, they may burn lights longer after switching to CFLs. Or they combined trips and carpooled in their SUV, but run all over town solo in their new Prius.
In Perth, Australia, people who were given rebates for household greywater systems increased potable water use by more than 16,000 gallons per year. It is believed that the system created a rationale for longer showers and such and the presence of the resultant greywater encouraged more outdoor irrigation.
Citations for studies related to these concepts would be greatly appreciated. Although I am a water guy, I'm posting this in energy because the studies I've heard mentioned pertained to electricity.
DougĀ Bennett
Conservation Manager
Southern Nevada Water Authority
United States
www.snwa.com
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