Operate automatic dishwashers only when they are fully loaded. Use the light wash feature, if available, to use less water.
Hand wash dishes by filling 2 containers - 1 with soapy water and the other with rinse water containing a small amount of chlorine bleach.
Clean vegetables in a pan filled with water rather than running water from the tap.
Start a compost pile as an alternate method of disposing of food waste or simply dispose of food in the garbage. (Kitchen sink disposals require a lot of water and energy to operate properly).
Store drinking water in the refrigerator. Do not let the tap run while you are waiting for water to cool.
Avoid wasting water waiting for it to get hot. Capture it for other uses such as plant watering or heat it on the stove or in a microwave.
Avoid rinsing dishes before placing them in the dishwasher; just remove large particles of food. (Most dishwashers can clean soiled dishes very well, so dishes do not have to be rinsed before washing)
Avoid using running water to thaw meat or other frozen foods. Defrost food overnight in the refrigerator or use the defrost setting on your microwave.
