What alternative can a project team suggest to reduce potable water use in an older apartment building?

Installing new flush valves and low-flow aerators is an effective alternative for reducing potable water use in an older apartment building because these solutions target specific fixtures that consume large amounts of water. Flush valves, when upgraded, can significantly lower the amount of water used per flush in toilets, while low-flow aerators can reduce the flow rate of faucets and showerheads without sacrificing user experience.

This approach not only provides immediate benefits in terms of water savings but also minimizes disruption for residents compared to replacing all plumbing fixtures, which can be a major and costly renovation. Moreover, it allows for the retention of existing infrastructure while enhancing water efficiency. By focusing on retrofitting specific components rather than a complete overhaul, the project team can implement these strategies more quickly and affordably, contributing to immediate and ongoing water conservation efforts.

In contrast, encouraging residents to limit their water use is more reliant on behavior change and may not be as effective without tangible improvements to fixtures. Rainwater harvesting, while beneficial in certain contexts, may not immediately address existing water use from plumbing fixtures in the building. Consequently, the option to install new flush valves and low-flow aerators stands out as both practical and impactful for reducing overall potable water consumption.