Going with the flow

Our Lakes, are they half full or half empty? I guess it depends on how you look at it. I think Atlantans have been put in an interesting position. A drought has forced us to take, in some cases, drastic measures in conservation. While no one can argue the merits of reduce, reuse and recycle, the prospect of not having a single swimming pool this summer was unsettling. In addition, to adhere to the Ten percent reduction in consumption of water directed by Governor Perdue, several public officials have suggested a Retrofit-at-resale solution. This would mean that before you can sell your house, all plumbing fixtures would have to be certified as, or replaced with low-flow fixtures. Others have even proposed making the sale of a home not equipped with low flow plumbing illegal. Not only does it seem a little unfair to put the conservation burden solely on the backs of homeowners that are trying to sell their homes, but more obviously, the plan offers no solution unless a property is for sale.

It is important for everyone to make an effort toward conservation. Some local governments have even enacted conservation pricing, where the price of water increases in proportion to consumer use. But what steps can we take? Have you considered the benefit of Low Flow plumbing in your house? Since adding this type of plumbing would be of benefit to our city and your wallet, why wait until the time of sale to consider the upgrade. Also consider energy rated appliances, recycled paper products, alternative energy sources and composting. For more information on Green Homes, visit www.greenhome.com.

I would love to see Atlanta residents rise to the challenge and let our city be a role model for Green living.