Press Release

PUC Offers Water-Saving Tips as Part of Earth Day Pledge Initiative

Published on 4/22/2008

Filed under: Water and Wastewater

HARRISBURG – In commemoration of Earth Day, April 22, and to culminate a week of sharing conservation tips with Pennsylvania utility consumers, the Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission (PUC) today encouraged each Pennsylvania water customer to make an “Earth Day Pledge” to conserve water this Earth Day and every day.

“As Pennsylvanians finally enjoy some sunny days to work in our yards, and wash the salt and dirt off our cars, there are some simple ways to save water,” said Commissioner Kim Pizzingrilli.  “We use up to 75 percent of our home’s total water use outdoors, during the growing season.  Now is the time to learn how to use our water wisely.”

PUC Chairman Wendell F. Holland earlier this week announced that, for the fourth-straight year, the PUC pledged to continue its successful commemorations of National Drinking Water Week, May 5 through May 9, with a Harrisburg-area media event highlighting sustainable infrastructure on Tuesday, May 6, and educational exhibits in the Atrium of the state Capitol Complex’s Commonwealth Keystone Building on Wednesday, May 7.

The PUC offers the following water-saving tips as the weather gets nicer:

• Water the lawn or garden during the coolest part of the day (early morning is best).  Do not water on windy days;
• Set sprinklers to water the lawn or garden only - not the street or sidewalk;
• Use mulch around shrubs and garden plants to reduce evaporation from the soil surface and cut down on weed growth;
• Raise your lawn mower cutting height - longer grass blades help shade each other, reduce evaporation and inhibit weed growth;
• Sweep driveways, sidewalks and steps rather than hosing off; and
• Wash the car with water from a bucket, or consider using a commercial car wash that recycles water.

For additional information on how to conserve water, visit the Consumer Education section of the PUC’s Web site or visit www.epa.gov/watersense.

As part of its “Earth Day Pledge” initiative, in the week leading up to Earth Day the PUC distributed conservation tips for consumers, including guidance on how to conserve water and energy, and some simple spring cleaning chores that may make your home more energy efficient.

The Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission balances the needs of consumers and utilities to ensure safe and reliable utility service at reasonable rates; protect the public interest; educate consumers to make independent and informed utility choices; further economic development; and foster new technologies and competitive markets in an environmentally sound manner.

For recent news releases, audio of select Commission proceedings or more information about the PUC, visit our Web site at www.puc.state.pa.us.

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Contact:

• Denise McCracken
  Senior Communications Specialist
  717-787-5722
  demccracken@pa.gov