How you can conserve water in your greenhouse facilities
Water is the life source of horticulture so it’s crucial that we in the industry do what we can to protect and appreciate what it accomplishes for our livelihood.
World Water Day also advocates for the sustainable management of freshwater resources.
In its 25th year, the theme for today’s World Water Day is “Nature for Water”, the idea being that we explore nature-based solutions to the water challenges we face in the 21st century.
Climate change is influencing a lot of water challenges we see around the world such as drought and flooding which is happening more frequently. These are made even worse by degraded vegetation, soil, rivers and lakes. When our ecosystems are neglected and we take water for granted, access becomes even scarcer.
In the United States alone, 38 percent of freshwater consumption is used for irrigation. Worldwide, that number is 80 percent of fresh water consumption. Unfortunately, water is often overused due to wasteful irrigation practices that can create a huge strain on local water supplies.
More so than ever, it’s necessary for us to acknowledge the role we play in the environment and what we as an industry and individuals can do to eliminate harmful water practices.
Of course, not every irrigation system makes sense for every crop but ensuring that you’re matching the appropriate system for individual crops can save water and money! The right system will not only increase crop production but can also promote sustainability through water efficient tactics.
Drip irrigation, for example, can increase production anywhere from 20 to 90 percent and by delivering water and nutrients right to the root, can conserve 50 to 70 percent more water than other more traditional forms of irrigation.
Similarly, subirrigation systems like trough systems, flood benches and flood floors can also increase production while often using 50 percent less water and fertilizer than conventional irrigating systems by recirculating the nutrient rich water.
Back to the theme of “Nature for Water”, a natural and free resource that can be used very easily for irrigation is rainwater. Consider investing in a system to reclaim rainwater from your greenhouse gutters.
Whether you’re looking at large-scale water conservation methods at a commercial facility or finding ways to conserve water in your own daily life, make today about water and remembering how lucky we are to have access to such an invaluable resource that contributes to our livelihoods.
