Water is in short supply. Let’s learn to make careful use of it!
I recently ate at Rifugio Cinque Torri and was very happy to note an intelligent initiative by the Associazione Rifugi Alpini del Veneto: an educational placemat reminding patrons how precious water is and inviting them to be wise in their use of it.
Water shortages are a serious and real problem requiring urgent action.
Water is a primary resource whose benefits should be available to all. Water is an inalienable right.
The climate is changing and, as the experts have been telling us for some time, this climate change is making its negative effects felt, in the Mediterranean in particular and including Italy, and will continue to do so.
A further reason behind the water crisis is population increase, i.e. a larger world population.
There are also other reasons for water shortages such as the great water wastage involved in intensive farming. The fodder required by farm animals requires around 500 litres per kilo.
But if water is in short supply, it is also because we are all making excessive use – or rather abuse – of it.
We must be more self-aware and attempt to save this precious resource and avoid pointless wastage.
Today, it is not only in the plains but also in the mountains – where it was once an unknown problem – that we notice that it is lacking. Many mountain hut managers are having to take stock of this situation.
So don’t be surprised if you sometimes cannot fill up your flasks and try to understand the limited menu availability and the absence of fresh vegetables. If you stay overnight at a mountain hut, accept that you cannot wash as you would at home.
Where does mountain huts’ water come from?
- springs;
- glaciers;
- rain;
- run off.
Aware of its value, mountain hut managers have to be intelligent in their everyday water choices and ration it in accordance with the seasons. This precious liquid serves for:
- cooking;
- washing dishes;
- staff use;
- personal use;
- bathrooms;
- showers;
- cleaning;
- clothes washing.
Average per capita use
- staff: 75 L
- patrons staying overnight: : 40 L
- patrons having lunch: 15 L
- toilet use only: 8 L
Is that what you would have expected? It really is a large volume of water.
Inspired by this placemat I decided to touch on this water issue, regarding a priceless resource which we often take for granted, a precious resource which we must accord the value it deserves. As water is in short supply, if you love the mountains don’t waste this indispensable asset!
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