CSR Malaysia May 2015 | Page 7

If you have kids at home, stick some fun graphics around the house and encourage them to learn about the importance of water conservation. Take the message to community groups and other organizations to which you belong. Shut off when offsite Do you turn off your home’s primary water main when traveling for business or going on holiday? Doing so can reduce the chance that water leaks go undetected while you’re away. Ford shuts off water systems in areas that are not in use and when the plants are closed, including areas like the car wash stations, phosphate overflows and leak test zones. Waste not, want not Water reuse is an effective way to cut down on your water bill and reduce water consumption. Simple activities like collecting water used to rinse veggies and fruits and using it to water your plants can make a big difference. Ford recycles treated wastewater for further use including irrigating, floor cleaning, workshop water consumption, and more. Gardening for the future Keeping your lawn lush can be a big drain on water – it may be time to rethink your garden. In recent years, Ford has taken steps to reduce the need for watering by using native, drought resistant vegetation or other landscaping that requires less or no water. Keep the hose in its holster Instead of washing your car with a hose, try using a pail of soapy water before rinsing with a waste-reducing spray nozzle. While cleaning floors and outdoor areas, avoid using a hose when possible. Buy efficient Many manufacturers offer dishwashers, refrigerators and ice machines that are more water and energy efficient. While initial investment may be more expensive, savings on water and electricity bills can make the purchase of greener machines a no-brainer in the long run, at home and in the factory. It better serves us to focus on ways to build resilience and adaptation by forging partnerships among various groups and interested actors Water shortages could threaten food production and energy supply and put additional stress on governments struggling with poverty and social tensions Flush less Try to avoid flushing away cotton balls or make up tissues. Simply throwing them in a bin will cut down on the amount of water wasted with every flush. Wash smart At staff canteens around the world, Ford kitchen employees only operate dishwashers at full capacity. This is easily replicated at home – whether it’s a dishwasher or a load of laundry, strive to run it only when it’s completely full. It’s small saving that adds up if we all pitch in. 7