Fresh Water from Unexpected Sources: Water from Air and Natures Water Filters

While watching the US open golf tournament this past weekend some might have seen as interview with PGA president. His interview center around golf course sustainability, and highlighted the scarcity of water. In an effort to conserve water several prominent golf courses now are using reclaimed waste water for course irrigation systems. This change in golf course maintenance highlights the emphasis we all should start examining about water conservation and green alterative for use of fresh water. Below are a few examples recent examples of new technology and using nature to obtain and filter water.

Fresh Drinking Water from Air?

Water out of the tap, though convenient and a modern marvel, just isn't good enough. We can do better. And we certainly try to: from filtered water pitchers to UV water systems, our options for home-based drinking water has never been more abundant. And that's not even considering bottled water--either in little single serving sizes, or those gigantic bottles that are hard to lift. There are pros and cons for each of these water delivery methods, which would imply that the concept could be improved upon.

Taking water directly from the air, the EcoloBlue 30 Atmospheric Water Generator combines a water cooler and a filter pitcher, and it requires no indoor plumbing to work. Utilizing a 12-stage filtration system, the water cooler starts by dehumidifying the air and sending the resulting water through a series of filters.

Air first enters the machine by passing through an electrostatic air filter, removing airborne micro-particles and dust. Water is extracted using food-grade condensing coils and from that point on is subject to a series of filters and UV-C sterilization lamps. After passing through charcoal filters, carbon filters, a mineral filter, and a reverse osmosis membrane (along with three UV-C baths), the water is ready to drink.

Needing only about 35 percent humidity to work effectively, the water condenser is an elegant solution for home or office water needs. It's capable of producing up to 8 gallons of water per day and is a viable alternative to the traditional methods of getting water into your drinking glass. For those who wish to completely sever the line and go off the grid, a solar option is available, creating the opportunity for owners to harvest water directly from the air, with no pipes or electrical outlets needed. Source Cnet.com http://www.cnet.com/8301-13553_1-20008431-32.html

Oysters natures Water Filter

A South Bronx community group plans to reseed the waterway with oysters and mussels and, in the process, revive the polluted waterway, which separates the Bronx from Randalls Island.The group - Friends of Brook Park - is waiting for word on a $50,000 grant from the United States Fish and Wildlife Service. "This would expose more people to the wonder of our waterways," said Harry Bubbins, who runs the Mott Haven group.

The oysters won't be fit for human consumption, but could help clean the narrow Bronx Kill, which has been devastated by dumping, sewage and landfill.Because the crusty bivalves are filter feeders - sucking in water and slurping algae and plankton from it - a square foot of oysters can filter 2,000 gallons of water per day.They also form reefs, which shelter fish, crabs and shrimp - more than 70 animal species all together, said Paul Mankiewicz of the Gaia Institute on City Island.

A century ago, oysters were so common that street stands sold them on the half-shell. But overharvesting, toxic waste and disease hit the mollusks hard. Bubbins said his group was inspired by a Bronx River restoration project.

Six years ago, the Bronx River Alliance and the city Parks Department set out to help a small colony of Bronx River oysters near Soundview Park. Like the Bronx Kill, the Bronx River had been ravaged by dumping and neglect.

In 2007 and 2008, volunteers used Long Island clamshells to build a reef for the oysters and gathered baby oysters from the water to boost the colony. In the Bronx Kill, Mankiewicz and Friends of Brook Park will install reef-like ropes made from recycled plastic, then reseed it with baby oysters.

Friends of Brook Park chose the Bronx Kill not only because it borders Mott Haven but also because the waterway is tranquil and too small for motorboat traffic. It would take an enormous oyster colony to rid the larger Bronx River of gunk, but a mollusk-powered Bronx Kill cleanup is doable, said Mankiewicz. Friends of Brook Park plans to work in the Bronx Kill near Lincoln Ave., but could also plant oysters near Mill Pond Park in the Harlem River.
Source NY Daily News:http://www.nydailynews.com/ny_local/bronx/2010/06/22/2010-06-22_bronx_kills_oyster_cult_eying_bivalves_to_clean_water.html#ixzz0rmuRMXxT

Clean Water Initiatives Rally on Heels of Gulf Oil Spill

"CGI realizes that dirty water is the mother of all global health challenge. They realize it is solvable," -John Oldfield, Vice President of Water Advocates

Water Advocates is a Washington-based group that lobbies for more attention to water-related health issues. Along with many other clean water initiatives, it's the first US based non-profit organization committed to escalating American support/rally for worldwide access to safe and inexpensive drinking water. Along with Doug Band, President Clinton and other various members of the Clinton Global Initiative, John Oldfield met in New York back in 2009 to discuss this epic global health challenge. But what exactly is being done today? And how does the recent havoc in the Gulf of Mexico affecting neighboring states?

Prior to the Clean Water Act of 1985, the US didn't have any clearly established guidelines for the release of toxins into lakes, rivers, etc… As we can see from perfect examples of disregard and carelessness like the progressive pollution of Onondaga Lake in Syracuse, NY, this brought about excessive pollution and pandemonium for anybody living in the vicinity. Known as one of the most polluted lakes in the US, Onondaga Lake suffered from exposure to industrial dumping and sewage contamination, much of what we still see to this day. It's clear that we're the ones responsible here; therefore we have no choice but to redeem our mistakes of yesterday by exploring new means in which to restore and preserve out water.

In most recent news, the Gulf Oil Spill has undoubtedly left a huge dent in progress, especially financially. Reports in excess of 10 billion dollars on the coast of Florida definitely support this claim. Pictures and videos continue to surface, displaying raw images of sea creatures and wildlife covered in oil. It's hard to imagine many of the surrounding ecosystems could survive in such a polluted habitat. With groups like the CGI, and Water Advocates, we have hope; but there's a lot yet to be done. Arguably, it isn't always human error – some global bodies of water are destroyed and contaminated by natural disasters. Whether or not we're responsible is an entirely different issue, but what's important is that we delve into the discovery of solutions to improve our future drinking supply.

Aside from Water Advocates, there a multitude of lobbying groups for the creation and distribution of clean and affordable water. Here are examples of a few:

 • http://www.Water.org

 • http://www.cleanwateraction.org/

 • http://www.holywatergroup.com/

 • http://www.clearwaterinitiative.org/

 • http://www.cleanwateradvocacy.org/

And this is just a handful of action-oriented organizations ready to make a change. Some are activists, looking for petitions and/or donations to a worthy cause, while others are actually looking into domestic water purification system and plan to distribute such items in the near future. CEO of Brita claims ""The initiative is part of BRITA's corporate culture", "Because we are the leading global brand on the water filtration market we consider ourselves responsible for drinking water projects throughout the world. We want to ensure that people all over the world gain access to this vital resource." Brita is actually one of the few that provides whole-house water purification internationally.

Oldfield is correct in his statement back in 2009; its clear there this is one of the most prevalent issues of 2010, and will continue to capture more eyes as the problem worsens. At this, it's important again that we remember to support this cause by visiting the above sites to find out more about what we can do as individuals. Congruently, be sure to use your own eco-conscience mind to conserver and sustain! This means turning the sink off while you brush your teeth, or spending less time in the shower!

Jack Lundee – Follower of all things green and progressive.

Tennessee Well Water May have Hidden Water Contamination and Viruses

researchers found viruses and bacteria in East Tennessee drinking water before it was treated, a finding that may be a warning for untreated home wells.

Researchers at the University of Tennessee in Knoxville linked the contamination of the community water sources' limestone -- karst -- aquifers to human feces.

"Karst aquifers have long been recognized as having high susceptibility to fecal contamination because they have features, such as sinkholes and caverns, which act as pathways for rapid flow and transport of contaminants," Larry McKay said in a statement.

The study, published online in advance of print in a special edition of the journal Pathogens and Fecal Indicators in Ground Water, pointed out all eight of the sampled wells and springs were used for public water supply -- water that is treated before distribution so the contamination in the study represented no direct risk to consumers.

However, the researchers say the results point to the health hazard potential of non-treated water.

"The real concern is for the numerous small non-community water systems and household wells, where local residents typically drink groundwater that hasn't been filtered or disinfected," McKay said. "It's likely that many of these residents are being exposed to waterborne fecal contamination, both bacterial and viral, but it isn't clear how big a health risk this represents. Local and regional research is needed to assess the health impacts."

Fecal contamination of the water may create no symptoms in some, while others may become seriously ill or even die, McKay noted.

One of the fastest growing water treatment technologies is uv water treatment. The water treatment industry uses a high-powered form of UV light called UV-C or “germicidal UV” to disinfect water. UV water disinfection performance is tied to the first laws of Photochemistry where only the light that is absorbed by a molecule can be effective at producing a photochemical change in the molecule. What this means is that in order for UV Water Treatment systems to work the light must be absorbed by the organism(s) in the water. Then the UV light causes damage to the DNA and RNA structure preventing it form being able to replicate itself. UV Water treatment systems are effective in destroying 99.99% of harmful microorganisms, including E. coli, Cryptosporidium, and Giardia.

Home Water Filtration Systems are Recommended by Presidential Panel

Our drinking water may not be as safe as we think. Although we in the United States have one of the world’s best drinking water supplies and systems, it is not without issues. A recent government study has highlighted the health concerns of carcinogens found in drinking water. As recommended by President Barack Obama’s anit-cancer panel, it has been suggested to that people use some type of home water filter system.

"President’s anti-cancer panel recommends home filtered water
Says systems can decrease exposure to carcinogens

 Lisle, Illinois — In its official annual report, the President’s Cancer Panel is recommending that people use home filtering devices to decrease exposure to cancer-causing agents.
“This reaffirms what independent testing shows,” said Peter J. Censky, executive director of the Water Quality Association. “Home water treatment is a proven final barrier against many harmful chemicals.”
The report is entitled “Reducing Environmental Cancer Risks: What We Can Do Now.” In it, the panel states, “Individuals and families have many opportunities to reduce or eliminate chemical exposures. For example, filtering home tap water or well water can decrease exposure to numerous known or suspected carcinogens or endocrine-disrupting chemicals.”

The President’s Cancer Panel is a three-person body that reports to the President of the United States on the development and execution of the National Cancer Program. Members serve three-year terms, and at least two of the three panel members must be distinguished scientists or physicians. The President appoints one of the members to a one-year chair position.

In addition to cancer-causing agents, water quality experts are examining other emerging contaminants, such as those found in personal care products and pesticides. Many of these are endocrine disrupting chemicals which interfere with normal hormonal function. WQA provides Gold Seal certification for products that remove a variety of contaminants.

Consumers can learn about different treatment systems and find locally certified dealers by visiting the WQA Web site’s Gold Seal and Find A Water Professional features. The Gold Seal program uses independently developed standards to certify devices. A copy of the panel’s report can be obtained at pcp.cancer.gov.
The Water Quality Association is a not-for-profit international trade association representing the residential, commercial, and industrial water treatment industry. Its membership consists of both manufacturers as well as dealers/distributors of equipment. WQA is a resource and information source, a voice for the industry, an educator of professionals, a laboratory for product testing, and a communicator with the public. WQA has more than 2,500 members."

For more information about drinking water contaminates, and water filtering options visit us online or call us where we have certified CWS (Certified Water Specialist) on site that can help you with finding the right water system for your home.

Cheaper way to keep Hydrated at Disney

One of the things that you will need a lot of when walking around Disney is water. The climate in Florida is hot, humid, and there is no better way to ruin a Disney day being hot and dehydrated. You can buy Bottled water throughout the park but can cost up to $3.00 per bottle. To save money, bring in your own water and be Eco-friendly by using a stainless steel water bottle. A steel water bottle coupled with an insulated water bottle holder such as NEO TOTE can keep your drink cold and add up to huge savings. Full up your water bottle before entering into the park, and once inside you can find free ice water at service counter to refill your bottle.

The math for me was simple; buy a 18 oz., 27oz, or 40 oz stainless steel water bottleplus a insulated water bottle sleevefor a cost around $10.00. This would be my total cost for water for my 5 day trip. On average I figured that I would drink 3 bottles of water each day inside the park for a total of $45 spent just on water and nothing to show for it but more plastics entering our landfills.

Shower Filters and Bath Filters, Thoughtful and Original Gift for Mom

Mother’s Day is a celebration that is recognized at different times around the globe. Here in the United States, Mother’s Day will fall on Sunday, May 9th, 2010. Historically, Mother’s Day falls on the second Sunday in May, and is a time to recognize mothers & motherhood, and the positive contributions that they make to their families and to society as a whole.

Let’s admit it, finding an original, thoughtful or creative Mother’s Day gift can be a difficult task. We have all but used up our best ideas on expensive spa treatments, massages, pedicures, manicures or countless other beauty-related products. After all, there are only so many times you can get her a gift card to the beauty supply store, before you and her both become bored with the same old song and dance. So let us suggest a truly creative Mother’s Day gift this year, a charcoal shower filter or bath water filter that will turn her bath time into spa time, every day!

Using filtered water in the bath and the shower promotes healthier and younger looking skin, more manageable hair, reduced fading of color treated-hair, relief from dry skin and scalp, improved lathering and softer feeling hair. So not only does a shower head water filter provide luxurious spa-quality water, it provides such positive benefits - more than most of those high-dollar beauty treatments! Aside from these obvious beauty benefits, personal shower filters removes 90% or more of the chlorine, which can cause great discomfort for those with chlorine sensitivity. And there’s no need to call a plumber – many of the popular styles of shower filters, like the Rainshower CQ-1000 shower head, install in minutes and connect directly to your existing shower head. Do not like the stationary shower head, and need more mobility? Try the Culligan hand-held shower filter hsh-c135.

Now, if a shower sounds nice, but a relaxing bath is more her style, we have just the thing! The Rainshow’r KDF Filament & Crystal Quartz Bath Filter lasts for at least 200 uses, and dechlorinates the water in just minutes! Just place the Rainshower Bath Ball Water Filter in your bath water to promote younger-looking skin, improved lathering, and dry skin relief. The treated water is so gentle it is safe for infants, adults and pets. So, make sure to grab a few extra bath water filter replacement cartridges before you check out, to ensure she enjoys her gift for years to come! Happy Mother’s Day !

Klean Kanteen Sport Cap Recall & Replacement Program

For safety reasons and in cooperation with US Consumer Product Safety Commission, Klean Kanteen is recalling the Sport Cap 2.0. Klean Kanteen® has received six consumer reports relating to the spout tip of Sport Cap 2.0 breaking or cracking after being dropped, which could pose a possible choking or ingestion hazard. There have been no incidents of actual choking or ingestion reported.

We at Klean Kanteen apologize both for the inconvenience and the resource footprint of this recall. We take the health and environmental aspects of our products very seriously and the mere possibility of our product harming someone gave everyone at Klean Kanteen pause. The decision to recall and replace caps was really the easy part, running a smooth replacement program is the challenge we now are rising to. We really appreciate your patience and understanding; we'll get you your new Sport Cap(s) as quickly as possible.

Jeff Cresswell and Michelle Kalberer
Owners, Klean Kanteen

If you have purchased a Klean Kanteen Sport Cap 2.0 from Fresh Water Systems, please visit our site to identify if your Sport Cap needs to be replaced ( Klean Kanteen Sport Cap Recall ). There is also a link to the replacement request form so Klean Kanteen can begin the replacement process.

Water Contamination: Toxic Weed Killer Atrazine More Testing Needed?

There are growing public health concerns about atrazine in our water supply, an agricultural weedkiller sprayed on farm fields across the Midwest. In most cases drinking water is tested for the chemical only four times a year. The testing of the water is so infrequent that spikes atrazine in water are likely go undetected. In some instances very high levels of the herbicide can linger in tap water during the growing season, according to more frequent tests in some agricultural communities.

Spread heaviest on cornfields crops, atrazine is one of the most widely detected contaminants in drinking water. Studies have found that exposure to small amounts of the chemical can turn male frogs into females and might be more harmful to humans than once thought.

Manufacturers say their own research proves the chemical is safe. But alarmed by other studies, the Obama administration is conducting a broad review that could lead to tighter restrictions. It is also mulling changes in laws that require water utilities to test for atrazine just once a quarter or, in some cases, once a year.

Any wide spread public health concern, such as contaminates in our drinking water should gain the full attention of regulating authorities. Until this happens you can protect your drinking water from these and other potential water contaminates. The first step is to know what contaminates your water does or does not contain. To do this all you need simple Home Water Test Kit. After getting the results then you can take corrective actions by using a water filter systems such as reverse osmosis systems, water distillers, and whole house water filtration systems.

Rainshow'r Chlorine Water Filter System for Garden Water & More

Spring is here and bountiful gardens, flowers, and vegetables are in full bloom. There are many factors that affect plant growth such as light, temperature, and soil, but arguably, one of the most important is water. Many water supplies contain chlorine. Chlorine is one of the most widely used drinking water disinfectants. While eliminating contaminates in our drinking water, the chlorine can also have adverse effects on the growth and development of many plants and gardens. The Rainshowr Gard'n Gro, Dechlorinator garden water filter system for your garden hose is a proven winner in building healthy gardens. Keeping the chlorine out of the garden promotes healthy plant nutrition and growth, by returning the natural balance to your soil, compost or mulch, and by protecting its beneficial bacteria.

Other Uses for Rainshowe’r Garden Gro
A dechlorinating garden water filter system can be used for more than just your garden and plants. Here are some more uses for the Rainshowe’r garden water filter system.

1. Many Automobile enthusiasts spend a lot of time washing and waxing there cars for that perfect shine. Chlorine from your water supply can dull the richness of your car waxing. If you really want to bring out the shine and protect your car's paint job this garden hose filter system is just what you need
2. Many people especially during the warmer months will bathe pets outside. The Gard'n Gro is a healthy alternative for bathing your pets, whose coats can become brittle and their skin dry and flaky when exposed to chlorine.
3. If there is one thing that fish do not like it is chlorine. Some luck people have an outdoor water pond/ fountain that has fish. With the Garden Gro system you can safely fill your fish pond with out worrying about the potential harmful effects of chlorinated water.

ECO Friendly Spring Products: Klean Kanteen Color Bottles and Bio Clean Drain Cleaner

Spring is now upon us. As we now get a chance to get out of the house and begin to enjoy all of our outdoor activates that we have missed over the winter months. I think that Charles Dickens said it best “It was one of those March days when the sun shines hot and the wind blows cold: when it is summer in the light, and winter in the shade. “

Many people will now start back enjoying our favorite outdoor activities. For kids many spring time sports start. One of the things that is a true sign spring time is here all the playing fields filled with children playing soccer and baseball. Many of us will take an early morning or late afternoon walk or bike ride. Even the more adventurous people can not wait to break out the camping and hiking gear. What every outdoor activity you like, it is of important that you say hydrated before, during and after.

In the spirit of Spring FreshWaterSystems.com is putting all Klean Kanteen Color Water Bottle on sale. These water bottles are not only reusable, BPA free, and Eco-friendly but are constructed with 18/8(#304) L.N. stainless steel. These color steel water bottles coupled with our NEO VAS insulated water bottle holder, will give you a bottle that keeps drinks cold, and protects the bottle form dents and scratches. These bottles are better than plastic, better for your wallet, and better for the environment.

One of the activity that is synonymous with spring time is spring cleaning. Spring cleaning is a tradition that allows us to freshen up our homes and get a head start on the hectic seasons of spring and summer. One of the often overlooked cleaning and maintenance chores that we often fail to remember is our plumbing and pipes in our homes. Generally our drains and plumbing systems are an after thought, out of sight out of mind, until there is a problem. One preventative solutions and of the most effective drain cleaners is Bio clean: Eco-friendly drain cleaner.

Worlds Best Biological Drain Cleaner, Bio Clean work for many applications. Bio-Clean® treats and cleans; Kitchen Sinks, Lavatories, Bath tubs, Showers, Floor drains ,Laundry drains, Septic tanks and drain fields, Garbage disposal odors, Grease traps, Sewage ejector sumps, Outdoor outhouses and cesspools, R.V. & boat holding tanks, Lift Stations, Cat Litter Boxes, Animal Waste, Sewage Spills, and much much more! BioClean® will take care of any of your organic messes, clogs or build up.