Top Eight Reasons Facilities Consider LEED Certification

LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) is the world's most widely used green building rating system. Every five years, the LEED program is reevaluated and updated by the US Green Building Council, the non-profit organization that manages the LEED certification program.

These updates, crucial to staying abreast of the latest environmental trends and regulations, are typically driven by changes in our environment and culture, and a growing need to conserve natural resources, particularly water.

They set a higher standard for facilities seeking LEED certification, encouraging organizations to take more significant steps towards sustainability and resource protection.

The latest LEED version, "v5," will be introduced in 2025. Because of this, many companies, building owners, developers, and managers are expected to give the latest version a close look. This is especially true of organizations planning construction projects, renovating existing buildings in 2025, or believing the time has come to become LEED-certified.

But what are the compelling reasons for an organization to pursue LEED certification? The benefits are numerous and significant. Among them are the following:

1.    Government incentives. Some cities and states offer rebates and tax benefits to LEED-certified facilities, especially if steps have been taken to reduce water consumption.

2.    Lower interest rates on construction loans. Banks may offer lower interest rates on construction and renovation loans for properties seeking LEED certification. Banks view these as safer investments.

3.    Address new rules and regulations. Both in the U.S. and especially in Western Europe, new rules and regulations are being put into place that put greater emphasis on sustainability, water efficiency, and environmental concerns. LEED-certified facilities typically can meet these new regulations and are often one step ahead of them.

4.    Culture of sustainability. Numerous organizations are adopting a "culture of sustainability." This is when all aspects of their business operations - from the vendors they work with to the products or services they offer – are taking steps to reduce consumption and protect natural resources.

5.    Happier employees. LEED-certified buildings have improved indoor air quality, typically because of the way they are cleaned and maintained. Further, there is much more emphasis on natural light and more open spaces. This contributes to happier employees and happier employees tend to be more productive and loyal to their employers.

6.    Long-term savings. While there was once a belief that LEED-certified buildings would be more expensive to build and operate, the reality is quite the opposite. These more efficient buildings typically have lower operating costs and energy and water bills, providing a sound financial investment overall.

7.    Real estate profitability. It is no secret that office buildings are struggling to attract tenants. However, LEED-certified facilities still maintain an edge over non-certified buildings. Potential tenants remain convinced that a LEED-certified facility tends to be better and more efficiently operated.

8.    Resilience. Compared to past versions, LEED v5 places much more emphasis on facility resilience. This is because changes in our climate are having a more significant impact on existing buildings. The two hurricanes in Florida are often used as an example. LEED v5 buildings are built to be more resilient and protective environments for building users.

Throughout, we’ve mentioned concerns about water and protecting this natural resource. This is because water scarcity is a growing global crisis. Further, droughts are becoming more frequent and severe, impacting communities globally.

However, for businesses, the truth is inescapable: water is their lifeblood.

If taps run dry, production lines freeze, employees go home, and revenue evaporates. While companies acknowledge mounting water crises, they're not just embracing water efficiency as a noble goal, they're recognizing it as the very oxygen they need for survival.

-Klaus

More Companies Taking Action to Improve Water Efficiency

Waterless® Co., Inc.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Press Release

What strikes me is how much is being accomplished to reduce water consumption around the globe.  

Vista, CA – October 20, 2024 - When it comes to water concerns, what we hear about most frequently is the failing water infrastructure in the U.S., growing water scarcity, dry aquifers, more frequent droughts, and severe water challenges in different parts of the world.

What we hear very little about is the progress being made by many companies to address these issues. These companies are becoming much more water efficient, which means they are reducing their water consumption long-term.

"I do not dispute [the fact that] the world has many water challenges," says water-efficiency expert, Klaus Reichardt, CEO and Founder of Waterless Co., Inc., marketers of no-water urinals.  

"But what is also important is that we do not overlook all the actions taken by businesses to reduce water consumption."

Reichardt points to programs such as Water<Less, which Levi Strauss & Company developed. This program reduces the amount of water used for garment finishing by 96 percent.

Since the program's inception in the late 2000s, more than 800 million gallons of water have been saved, and more than 400 million gallons of water have been recycled.

Several other corporations have also made commendable progress in enhancing their water efficiency efforts. Among them are:

• The Ford Motor Company has reduced its water consumption by 70% since 2000.

• Google has ambitiously pledged to replenish 120% of the water it uses by 2030.

• Coca-Cola achieved a milestone in 2015 by becoming the first Fortune 500 company to be net-zero - replenishing as much water as it consumes - in its worldwide beverage production.

• PepsiCo has also made substantial improvements, boosting its water efficiency by 50% from 2019 to 2020. Its target is to achieve net water positivity by 2030.  

• Similarly, Microsoft is actively working towards becoming net water positive, aiming to restore more water than it uses globally by 2030.

"What strikes me is how much is being accomplished to reduce water consumption around the globe," adds Reichardt. "This must not be overlooked because it shows what can be done and inspires other companies to follow these water-efficiency leaders."

 About Waterless

Waterless Co., Inc. has been a pioneer in water efficiency since 1991, when it introduced waterless urinals to North America. Headquartered in Vista, CA, the company has established itself as a key player in promoting water efficiency. Their product range includes a variety of no-flush urinals, liquid plumbing solutions, and cost-saving accessories, reflecting their commitment to environmental sustainability and innovation in water-saving technologies.

 Contact Information

Waterless Co. Inc.

1050 Joshua Way
Vista, CA 92081 USA
800.244.6364

sales@waterless.com

Three Things You’ve Always Wondered About But Never Asked

An Ornate Toilet in a Centuries Old Water Closet

🚾What is a Water Closet?

The water closet, often abbreviated as WC, is a historical marvel that dates to the 16th century. It marks a significant milestone in the evolution of bathroom sanitation, guiding us from the days of outdoor outhouses to the comfort of indoor plumbing systems that we enjoy today.

Initially, only the rich or royalty had them, and they were often very ornate. The first known water closet in the U.S. was in Annapolis, Maryland, installed in a home called Whitehall, built for the colonial governor of Maryland around 1765.

In 1804, Thomas Jefferson installed two water closets flushed by water-fed cisterns in the White House. By the way, this was thirty years before water for drinking and bathing was installed in the White House.

Today, things are a lot different. Many of us have water closets in our homes, usually a separate room off the bathroom, even though we may not call them water closets.

🏭Why Do Plumbing Systems Have Air Vents on the Roof?

That air vent on the roof, better known as a vent stack, is a vertical pipe to which all drains in a facility are connected. The top portion extends about two feet above the roof to have access to air.

Vent stacks are connected to sewer pipes and are designed to release gases that accumulate inside the entire plumbing system. They also allow fresh air into the system, which helps water flow easily through the drainpipes.

Vent stacks, however, can malfunction over time. Typically, this happens when debris collects in the vent. You'll know there is a problem when foul odors develop in the home or facility, and you can't find the source.

Another sign of a problem is when it takes a long time for water to drain. Our first thought is usually that the pipes below the drain are clogged. However, the clog is not in the pipe but in the vent stack. Clean the vent stack, and the slow-draining problem is solved.

♨Why do J-Traps Dry Out?

J-traps, also known as P-traps, are essential components in plumbing systems. They are designed to trap a small amount of water in the pipe – known as a water seal - to prevent sewer gases from entering the home or facility.

They are typically dependable but can dry out under certain conditions, such as infrequent use or arid environments. When this happens, they release unpleasant and potentially health-risking fumes and odors. These fumes can include methane and hydrogen sulfide, which can be harmful to people and pets if inhaled in large quantities.

Regular use of sinks and drains usually maintains the necessary water seal, but less frequent use may require additional measures.

Pouring water down the drain is a temporary fix, as evaporation, over time, will evaporate the water seal. Decades ago, a myth developed that pouring bleach down the drain would fix the problem. Now, we know this is very dangerous due to bleach's chemical properties and its potential to create hazardous fumes when mixed with sewer gases.

Fortunately, products like Everprime offer a safe and convenient solution. Everprime is a biodegradable liquid that maintains the water seal for extended periods, even in extreme climate conditions and when drains are used infrequently. Three ounces of Everprime poured down all drains provides a sense of security, ensuring the functionality of J-traps, and helping to maintain a pleasant, healthy, and odor-free indoor environment.

#Waterless Co., Inc is a #pioneer in #waterefficiency. We are the go-to company when it comes to reducing #waterconsumption, understanding the many benefits of waterless urinals, and #waterefficiently. For more information, contact a Waterless Co Specialist. 

The Water-Hungry World of AI 🤖

Artificial intelligence is becoming an increasingly integral part of our daily lives. However, its growth comes at a significant cost: water.

As AI systems consume more and more water, it's essential to consider their impact on our planet's precious resources.

Here’s an example of what I’m talking about:

If sixteen million people in the United States were to send just one 100-word email per week using ChatGPT, a widely popular AI platform, it would require approximately one hundred fifteen million gallons of water annually.

That’s nearly equivalent to the total water consumption of Rhode Island in two days.

Researchers have also found that a single 100-word AI-generated email uses slightly more water than a standard 16.9-ounce bottle of soda. These seemingly small amounts can quickly add up, highlighting the need for mindful water consumption and water efficiency in the age of AI.

So, where is all this water going?

Most of this water is going for cooling AI servers. They need a lot more cooling – meaning a lot more water – than traditional servers.

This water consumption is further exacerbated by the substantial electricity demands of generative AI in regions like California, where a sizable portion of electricity is generated using water-intensive methods.

Google's data centers offer a stark example of AI's water footprint.

According to recent research by the University of California, these data centers withdrew nearly 6.5 billion gallons of water and consumed 5.3 billion gallons for cooling in 2022 alone, a 21% increase from the previous year. These are the latest stats available.

Microsoft's water consumption for AI purposes rose by an even more alarming 34% during the same period.

Today, some AI companies are drawn to Arizona because of the abundant sunshine for solar power generation. However, the need for water for cooling remains is a pressing concern. With Arizona already facing water scarcity due to climate change and population growth, the additional demand from AI technology could further strain its fragile water resources.

In response to these concerns, a ChatGPT spokesperson emphasized the company's ongoing efforts to improve efficiency. These initiatives include developing more water-efficient cooling systems, optimizing AI algorithms, and increasingly turning to renewable energy sources.

While these solutions hold promise, it's imperative to address the growing water challenges associated with AI's unchecked expansion. The potential threat to global water scarcity cannot be ignored. Responsible and efficient water management is essential to ensure that AI's benefits are realized without compromising the worlds growing needs for clean, healthy, potable water.

Klaus Reichardt is CEO and founder of Waterless Co, Inc., a pioneer in advancing water efficiency. Reichardt is a frequent author and presenter who discusses water conservation issues. He can be reached at klaus@waterless.com

The future of restrooms is here! 🚹

Our Baja urinal installed on a building’s roof top.

🙌The Baja Waterless Urinal from Waterless Co. Inc. has just been named one of the best in 2024.

This recognition from Thehomebit.com highlights its unmatched quality and performance.

Here’s what makes the Baja a game changer:

→ The EcoTrap trap/cylinder blocks odors for a fresh, clean experience.

→ Compact design: 14” x 14.5” x 21.5”.

→ Lightweight at just 26.4 pounds.

→ Made from durable ceramic for long-lasting use.

→ No need for flush water supply lines.

→ Easy installation with no handles or flush sensors.

🔧Upgrade your restroom with the Baja Waterless Urinal.

Find it on Amazon: https://lnkd.in/gYGsz8q7. 🛒

AI's Secret Ingredient: Water

Artificial intelligence (AI) models have witnessed remarkable breakthroughs and success in numerous areas. While still controversial, the potential of AI to positively impact our country and countries worldwide is undeniable.

While it has made significant strides in various fields, AI's environmental impact often goes unnoticed. While the carbon footprint of AI models has received some attention, its water footprint has largely been overlooked.

AI models are typically housed in energy-intensive data centers, which require vast amounts of water for cooling and electricity generation.

This water consumption can strain already limited freshwater resources, especially in regions of the world facing water scarcity - including right here in the U.S.

As the world's population grows and climate change intensifies, freshwater availability is becoming increasingly scarce. This pressing issue demands immediate attention.

That's why it is crucial to recognize AI's hidden water costs and explore strategies to reduce the water consumption associated with these data centers.

By doing so, we can pave the way for a future where AI contributes positively to our society without compromising our planet's precious water resources.

Fortunately, there is hope for a more sustainable future and it's called water-efficiency. At Waterless Co., Inc., we define water efficiency as:

"The responsible use of water resources through water-saving and water-eliminating technologies. It involves reducing our water footprint in business, industry, and home consumption. Focusing on water efficiency ensures we make the most of every drop, minimize waste, and protect this vital resource."

We can do this. We can, and we are finding ways to be more efficient with water. Let's stay committed to this cause and inspire others to join us in this crucial mission.

www.waterless.com

Your Questions answered about everprime

We've recently shared several articles about our product, EverPrime, on LinkedIn and our website. EverPrime is a biodegradable liquid that keeps the P-trap (also known as the U-trap or J-trap) under drains filled, preventing potentially toxic sewer odors from being released into restrooms and other facility areas.

Since then, we've received many questions about P-traps, plumbing maintenance, and EverPrime. Below, we share some of those questions and their answers with you. 

What happens when drains dry up?

A P-trap is a very practical device installed under almost all drains. As water goes down the drain, a small amount collects in the P-trap, helping prevent sewer gasses from being released into the room or area. However, P-traps can dry up when facilities such as schools or office buildings are closed for long periods or when restrooms or faucets get little or no use.  That’s when sewer odors are released.

What creates the sewer gas?

Sewer gas is formed from decomposing human and animal waste. It contains ammonia, methane, and hydrogen sulfide, all of which can be toxic if inhaled in high concentrations. Many people suffer eye irritation, nausea, or difficulty breathing if they inhale these gasses, and people have died as a result of sewer gas being released into an enclosed area.

Can you just pour some water down the drain if you smell the sewer odors?

Yes, you can, but here's the problem. By the time you smell it, it may be too late. When it comes to sewer odors, it is best to take proactive steps, preventing them from happening in the first place, instead of reactive measures, which deal with the problem after it presents itself.

Who is at risk?

We all are at risk if the situation is dangerous enough. And children may be at even higher risk because they breathe faster than adults.

Are there "levels" of sewer gas concentration?

Excellent question, and yes, there are. Here is what we know.

·       Concentrations of 0.0005 parts per million (ppm) can be detected and smells like burning chemicals or rotten eggs

·       At 0.01, it can cause nausea and eye discomfort.

·       From 0.02 ppm to as high as 20 ppm, can produce headaches, increase heart rates, impact cognitive abilities, and cause muscle coordination.

What steps can we take to prevent this from happening?

Adding water to the drain every day will help. If in a room that is mopped daily that should allow enough water to run down the drain to keep the P-trap from drying up. However, when no water goes down the pipes for days, weeks, or longer, that’s when the sewer odor problems surface. In such cases, a very inexpensive but effective product that can keep the P-trap filled for months is called EverPrime®.  

EverPrime is biodegradable and as we said, very cost-effective.  Only about three ounces of the product need be poured into each drain. Further, EverPrime is not impacted by climate conditions and it lasts for months.

Stay informed and keep your facility smelling fresh with EverPrime!

Avoid Sewer Gas Odors this Winter: Keep Your Facility Fresh and Healthy! 🏢

Winter's cold and dry air can dry out U-traps, allowing potentially harmful sewer gasses to escape into a facility.

👎The old solution: In the past, custodians would pour water or bleach down drains to prevent this, but this is a temporary solution. Bleach also harms the environment.

👍There's a better way! EverPrime from Waterless Co. is a professional, effective, and affordable solution.

What makes EverPrime different? 🤔

🎯It's biodegradable and eco-friendly: Safe for the environment.

🎯It's temperature resistant: Works in extreme heat or cold, unlike water.

🎯It doesn't evaporate: Provides long-lasting protection against sewer gas.

🎯And it's easy to use: Just mix three ounces of EverPrime with a gallon of water and pour it down the drain.

Want to learn more⁉️

Visit www.waterless.com or call toll-free: 800-244-6364 and keep your facility smelling fresh all winter long!

What Users Have to Say About Everprime

EverPrime is a revolutionary product designed to prevent drain odors from escaping into restrooms. It works by maintaining the water seal in your facility’s drains, even when buildings are unoccupied for extended periods.

This is crucial because dry drain seals can become breeding grounds for harmful bacteria and gases that, when released into the air, can make building occupants sick.

With EverPrime, you can:

• Improve indoor air quality: Keep your buildings fresh and free from unpleasant odors.

• Protect the health of your tenants: Reduce the risk of illness caused by harmful bacteria and gases.

• Save time and money: Avoid costly repairs and maintenance related to drain issues.

But don’t just take our word for it.

Check out these verified reviews from Amazon and other sources to see why EverPrime is a must-have for property managers:

Works as advertised.

Verified Purchase

Posted by Robert on October 12, 2020

It's easy to use. Follow the instructions, and the odors are gone. I had an overflow drain in the laundry that would dry out and cause an unwanted sewer smell. I purchased Everprime, and there is no more smell.

Verified Purchase

Posted by JL on October 2, 2020

I'm a property manager. I got tired of tenants complaining about sewer gas smells in restrooms when the traps dry out. So far, Everprime is not drying up, and complaints have stopped. Yea!

Verified Purchase

Reviewed in the United States on March 23, 2024

I use it in the drains in [our] Florida house. It works great, and after a couple of months of dormancy, the house doesn't stink.

Verified Purchase

Reviewed in the United States on November 23, 2017

It clogged my bathroom sink after a few days. Nothing unclogs it, not even Drano.

Verified Purchase

Reviewed in the United States January 15, 2020

Response from Waterless Co Spokesperson: EverPrime is not a drain opening liquid. It is simply an odor blocker, coming to the rescue when the liquid trap in the pipe below the drain evaporates.

Our advice: Use an angular to open the drain and see if that opens the drain. If that does not solve the problem, a plumber may be necessary but try doing this first.

Great product

Verified Purchase

Reviewed in the United States on February 23, 2019

Perfect accessory for home urinal

Verified Purchase

Reviewed in the United States on September 16, 2019

Easy to use; great stuff but a little pricey.

Verified Purchase

Reviewed in the United States on August 13, 2021

Response from Waterless Co Spokesperson: All that is needed is 3 ounces of EverPrime per drain as needed. The product works for months making it very cost effective.

Great functionality. Easy to use. Safe and effective. Good packaging

Verified Purchase

Reviewed in the United States on January 5, 2021

Note: These are actual reviews. We just corrected them for spelling and grammar where necessary.

It’s Not the Jewels that Made “Material Girl.” It was the Water.

Iconic Video Required Thousands of Gallons of Water to Make

Released in 1985, Madonna's "Material Girl" is often hailed as one of the most iconic music videos ever created.

The four-minute video, made in just two days, presents Madonna as a spoiled heiress surrounded by nineteen tuxedoed suitors, all offering her extravagant gifts.

It's viewed as a glamorous reimagining of an earlier dance number made by Marilyn Monroe.

However, little is known about the video's environmental impact – such as how much water was used to make all the clothing worn in the video.

This includes all the clothing and tuxedos worn by the male dancers along with her own fashions, which included several pairs of gloves and numerous outfit changes over the two-day filming period.

It is because of this that Klaus Reichardt, CEO and founder of Waterless Co., Inc., a company known for its innovative no-water urinals, conducted a survey on LinkedIn, asking his followers and connections the following question:

How Much Water Do You Believe Was Used to Make the Fashions in the Madonna Video Material Girl?

The responses were as follows:

• 10,000 gallons: 13%

• 50,000 gallons: 33%

• 650,000 gallons: 33%

• Over 700,000 gallons: 21%

"The majority (over 50%) believed the water usage was a staggering 650,000 gallons or more," says Reichardt.

"And they’re probably right. Just a single t-shirt worn by one of the [male] dancers required a shocking seven hundred gallons of water to produce … so you can see how it took hundreds of thousands of gallons of water to make that video." (See Sidebar Below: How Much Water is in Your Closet)

Reichardt emphasizes that he is not singling out the fashion industry or any other industry for using huge volumes of water.

"Instead, when it comes to water, my goal is to empower all industries and all consumers to take responsibility for their water use. Our mantra should be reduce waste, use less, and always use water more efficiently."

Sidebar: How Much Water is in Your Closet

The amount of water it takes to produce the different types of clothing in your closet can vary significantly, but together, the amount can be staggering, especially for those items made of cotton. In general, it takes:

• Ninety-nine gallons of water to make a pair of socks.

• Seven hundred gallons to make one cotton t-shirt.

• Eight hundred ninety gallons to make one sweatshirt or hoodie.

• One thousand nine hundred gallons to make your favorite pair of jeans.

Sources: Florida State University; Sustainabilitymag.com

Note: Water efficiency refers to the intelligent and responsible use of water resources. The goals are to minimize waste and maximize the beneficial use of water. It involves using less or no water to accomplish the same task or produce the same result.

###

About Waterless

Waterless Co., Inc., Introduced waterless urinals to North America in 1991. Based in Vista, Ca, the company has become a leader in water efficiency. The company offers a full line of Waterless No-Flush urinals, cleaning solutions, and other cost-saving accessories. Visit: www.waterless.com

Waterless Co. Inc.

1050 Joshua Way

Vista, CA 92081 USA

800.244.6364

sales@waterless.com

Media Contact: Robert Kravitz

Phone: 312-880-8176

E-Mail: robert@alturasolutions.com