Sustainability facts

The following facts are contributed by SOA GA Andrea Wilkins. (They can also be read in the ASL restroom -- so yoiu have access in physical as well as virtual space!). Did you know? If your toilet is from 1992 or earlier, you probably have an inefficient model that uses between 3.5 to 7 gallons per flush. Newer, high-efficiency toilets use less than 1.3 gallons per flush -- that's at least 60 percent less water per flush! (EPA, 2008 http://www.epa.gov/owm/water-efficiency/water/simple.htm) Letting your faucet run for five minutes uses about as much energy as letting a 60-watt light bulb run for 14 hours. (EPA, 2008 http://www.epa.gov/owm/water-efficiency/water/simple.htm) A full bath tub requires about 70 gallons of water, while taking a five-minute shower uses only 10 to 25 gallons. (EPA, 2008 http://www.epa.gov/owm/water-efficiency/water/simple.htm) Turn off lights when not needed. For example, turning off fluorescent lights saves energy, extends overall lamp life and reduces replacement costs. Myth: Turning lights on and off uses more electricity than leaving the lights on. (http://www.srpnet.com/energy/biztips.aspx)