The water supply for 18 states of the nation originates in the Rocky Mountains of Colorado, due to delivery obligations from interstate compacts and agreements, less than 40% of the water that starts in Colorado is consumed in Colorado.  Knowing how important water is to life, it would be in our best interest to take a detailed look at how we use water in our homes.  Taking an environmentally positive approach in understanding how to reduce the consumption of water as well as reduce the costs associated with taking a shower are becoming better known in the real estate realm as "green plumbing".  

A few ideas on how to increase the sustainability of the plumbing in your home are below:

1. Save water – Only 1% of the planet’s water is drinkable, and we capture less than 6% of our total rainfall. So water is becoming increasingly precious and expensive and rainwater tanks that support gardens through drier months are becoming a popular feature. .
2. Use a green plumber – Specialist plumbers will audit your water use and advise you on the best way to reduce consumption. This service could save hundreds of dollars in water bills every year.
3. Filtration update – Investigate installing or updating the filtration system, as this will minimize bacteria, germs and chemicals in your water supply. While this might not be a specifically green-oriented initiative, it’s good for the wellbeing of you and your family.
4. Dual-flush – Install a dual-flush toilet. Cheaper ones tend to leak into the bowl and can waste more water than they save. So, invest in a quality model. You can save two-thirds of your water usage right here.
5. Head for the shower – There is a variety of technologies designed to reduce a shower’s water consumption. Shower heads that generate high pressure from low-flows are a popular solution. Atomizing technology, created for jet engines, will turn the water into a mist. It’s still a great shower and uses less water. Somebody once said it’s like “hugging a warm cloud”.
6. Focus on taps – Low-flow taps in the bathroom and kitchen will also have a favorable impact on your water usage. When selling a home, it’s never a bad idea to upgrade your taps as this usually impresses buyers when they inspect your property. 
7. Date with a dishwasher – Stop washing your dishes in the sink. A dishwasher uses less water, and the chemical soaps that are usually recommended for these appliances are environmentally-friendly. 
8. Efficient hot water – Appliances such as water heaters use a lot of energy over the year. It’s worth considering whether yours needs an update. You can expect to update a water heater every 10 to 15 years. While you’ll have the upfront cost of a new model, you’ll see savings on your electricity or gas bill immediately. Slow to heat water heaters also encourage you to waste more water as you’re likely to run the tap longer waiting for the water to heat up. 

In many areas the local government or utility supplier will have a fair amount of incentives, data, and willingness to help when it comes to conserving such an important resource.  Reach out and start the conversation.