Water

Water is a vital resource that sustains life, ecosystems, and the overall health of our environment. In Piacenza, mindful water use is essential not only for meeting our current needs but also for ensuring that future generations have access to clean, sufficient water supplies. As climate change intensifies and populations grow, water conservation becomes increasingly important.

Tips for water conservation

• Fix leaks promptly: even minor leaks in faucets, pipes, or toilets can lead to significant water wastage over time. A dripping tap can waste up to 15 liters of water per day. Regularly inspect your home for leaks and make repairs as soon as possible. This simple action can save water and lower your utility bills.
• Install water-efficient fixtures: consider upgrading to water-efficient fixtures such as low-flow showerheads, faucets, and dual-flush toilets. These fixtures are designed to use less water while maintaining effective performance. For example, a low-flow showerhead can reduce water usage by 50-70%, saving both water and energy.
• Shorten your showers: reducing your shower time by just a few minutes can save gallons of water each day. Aim for showers that are 5 minutes or less. For added savings, consider installing a shower timer to help track your water usage.
• Turn off the tap: simple habits like turning off the tap while brushing your teeth, shaving, or washing your hands can save hundreds of liters of water each month. Similarly, when washing dishes by hand, fill the sink or a basin instead of letting the water run continuously.
• Use a dishwasher wisely: dishwashers can be more water-efficient than washing dishes by hand, especially if you run them only when full and use eco or water-saving settings. A modern dishwasher can use as little as 10 liters of water per cycle, compared to up to 100 liters for hand washing.
• Water plants responsibly: water your garden in the early morning or late evening when temperatures are cooler, and evaporation is minimized. This helps ensure that more water reaches the roots of your plants. Additionally, consider installing a drip irrigation system that delivers water directly to the base of plants, reducing waste, instead of a spray system.
• Reuse greywater: greywater is the relatively clean wastewater from baths, sinks, washing machines, and other kitchen appliances. It can be reused for irrigation or flushing toilets. By setting up a greywater system, you can significantly reduce your household’s water consumption. Ensure you follow local guidelines and regulations when installing such systems.
• Collect rainwater: installing a rainwater harvesting system is an effective way to collect and store rainwater for use in your garden or even for household chores. Rain barrels and more advanced collection systems can capture a significant amount of water during wet seasons, reducing your reliance on the municipal water supply.
• Consider water-efficient landscaping: opt for drought-resistant plants and native species that require less water. Xeriscaping, a landscaping method that reduces the need for irrigation, is an excellent option for creating a beautiful yet water-efficient garden. Mulching around plants can also help retain soil moisture.
• Educate your household: encourage family members, especially children, to be mindful of their water usage. Teaching everyone in the household about the importance of water conservation can lead to more significant savings. Simple practices like turning off the tap and using water-efficient appliances can make a substantial difference.

Local opportunities 

Water distribution kiosks

Piacenza is home to 4 water distribution kiosks. These are free, and provide still, sparkling and cool water. Filling up your bottles or other containers of water in these kiosks is a good alternative to buying new plastic bottles of water.

The kiosks are: 

• Via XXIV Maggio; open 7.30 – 18.30
• Farnesiana via Radini Tedeschi; open 7.30 – 20.30
• Mortizza area verde di via Donatori di sangue (angolo via Mortizza); open solar time 7.00 – 21.00, daylight savings time 7.00 – 23.00
• Località Quarto, via Zanaboni; open solar time 7.00 – 21.00, daylight savings time 7.00 – 23.00
• https://www.comune.piacenza.it/it/page/acqua-chioschi-per-la-distribuzione-di-acqua-potabile

• Purifiers, and water filters

• Drinking tap water in our day-to-day life is a great way to save on plastic bottles; a water purifier is a great tool to make tap water, which is already drinkable, even better.
• Decalacque is a local enterprise which installs water purifiers and filters, as well as other services for a more sustainable household. https://www.decalacque.com/   
  Via Cremona, 24/26, 29121 Piacenza, 0523 550219, [email protected] 

Support local clean water initiatives

• • Various local organizations, such as Legambiente Piacenza, are dedicated to protecting and restoring the water quality of the region’s rivers, lakes, and other natural water bodies. Volunteering for river clean-up events, tree planting along waterways, or participating in educational programs are ways to get involved. Your efforts can help preserve Piacenza’s natural resources and ensure clean water for future generations.
  • Legambiente Piacenza: https://legambiente.piacenza.it/ via Giordani 2, Piacenza

Visit educational exhibits and workshops

• • • The Museo Civico di Storia Naturale in Piacenza frequently hosts exhibitions and workshops focused on local ecosystems, including the role of water. These events provide valuable insights into the natural water cycle, the impacts of pollution, and the importance of conservation efforts. They also offer practical tips on how citizens can contribute to water sustainability.
      https://www.msn.piacenza.it/it   
      via Scalabrini 107 (“Urban Center”) 29121 Piacenza, Italia
      tel: 0523 334 980
      e-mail: [email protected]
      Opening: Tuesday to Friday 9.30-12.30; Saturday and Sunday: 9.30-12.30 and 15:00-18:00
    • Engaging with these exhibits is a great way to enhance your understanding of local water issues and inspire more sustainable practices at home.

Engage with water conservation groups

• • Piacenza is home to several environmental groups and community organizations focused on sustainable living, including water conservation. Joining these groups can provide you with access to resources, knowledge, and a network of like-minded individuals who are passionate about preserving Piacenza’s water resources. These groups often organize events, workshops, and campaigns that you can participate in.
  • Some prominent organizations include Il Germoglio, which focuses on sustainable agriculture and water use; https://www.ilgermogliopiacenza.it/
    Via Bubba, 25 – 29122 Piacenza – Tel. 0523 610248 Fax 0523 607557 – Mail: [email protected]