On 10 February, the fifth session of the programme “Saving the Family Budget by Living Greener”, organised by the Environmental Competence and Education Centre (VKIC) of Ltd “ZAAO”, took place online. The session was dedicated to water conservation and its impact on the environment. A total of 102 adults from across Latvia participated, and several industry experts delivered scientifically grounded explanations and practical solutions - Toms Bricis, Ramona Višņevska, Agnese Meija-Toropova, Irina Paegle and Sandra Vasiļevska.
During the online lecture, participants’ understanding of the water cycle in nature and the impact of climate change on water resources was enhanced. Household water consumption habits were discussed, as well as opportunities for using rainwater and “grey water” in everyday life. Participants learned about the risks posed by household chemicals and microplastics to the environment and human health. Particular attention was given to how daily choices affect water quality and wastewater treatment processes, emphasising the importance of sustainable behaviour.
Experts highlighted that water purification is a long, energy-intensive and resource-demanding process; therefore, responsible water use begins at the household level. By using rainwater for gardening or “grey water” for technical purposes, it is possible to reduce the consumption of treated drinking water while also saving the energy required for water preparation and purification.
In discussing household chemicals and microplastics, participants gained an in-depth understanding of how microplastic particles and chemical substances found in detergents, cosmetics and synthetic textiles enter wastewater, the environment and potentially the human body. During the session, participants also received practical recipes and solutions for preparing effective cleaning products from natural ingredients, thereby reducing the release of chemicals and microplastics into sewage systems and the everyday environment.
The session received broad and very positive feedback from participants - all respondents rated it as excellent, outstanding or good. Toms Bricis’s professional explanation of climate processes, practical examples for changing everyday habits, and the clear and structured content of the lecture were particularly highly appreciated. 87% of participants stated that after the session they had a much better understanding of the impact of household chemicals and microplastics on the environment. In feedback, the session was described as “informative”, “valuable”, “inspiring” and “practical for everyday life”.
The aim of the programme is to promote adults’ understanding of how saving resources, sorting waste and reusing materials can simultaneously reduce environmental impact and optimise the family budget. The topic of water was part of a broader training programme that has already covered issues related to textiles, food, natural resources and waste sorting.
The final session of the programme will take place on 25 February and will be dedicated to energy efficiency in households - solutions related to heat, electricity and alternative energy.
The programme is implemented within the framework of the LIFE Integrated Project "Waste To Resources Latvia - boosting regional sustainability and circularity", with financial support from the European Union LIFE Programme and the State Regional Development Agency.
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