Reusing water whenever possible is essential in a semi-arid country like ours, but keep in mind there are different "shades" of greyness when it come to greywater.
For the garden, only recycle water you’ve used to wash yourself or laundry, and even then, note that some greywater isn’t suitable for irrigation, just toilet flushing. This includes water containing fabric softener, and from washing dirty nappies or work clothes heavily soiled with petrol or chemicals.
Aim to cut back on non-biodegradable body products and laundry detergents as much as possible, to keep your recycled water a lighter shade of grey.
Don’t reuse dishwater: it contains detergent that can damage plants, and food residues that can cause unwanted bacterial growth.
Got a good green tip or event to share? Email me at oroseinn@sa.24.com or post on the EnviroHealth Forum. If it's a planet-saver, we'll publish it.
Water recycle logo: Shutterstock
For the garden, only recycle water you’ve used to wash yourself or laundry, and even then, note that some greywater isn’t suitable for irrigation, just toilet flushing. This includes water containing fabric softener, and from washing dirty nappies or work clothes heavily soiled with petrol or chemicals.
Aim to cut back on non-biodegradable body products and laundry detergents as much as possible, to keep your recycled water a lighter shade of grey.
Don’t reuse dishwater: it contains detergent that can damage plants, and food residues that can cause unwanted bacterial growth.
Got a good green tip or event to share? Email me at oroseinn@sa.24.com or post on the EnviroHealth Forum. If it's a planet-saver, we'll publish it.
Water recycle logo: Shutterstock