Black cast-iron teapot and ochre cup.
A world facing severe water scarcity: a call to action
The average person uses around 3,700 litres of water everyday. That is a staggering amount. This is our total water footprint, encompassing both the direct water we use every day and the indirect water used to produce the things we consume.
Water scarcity is a growing threat to billions of people worldwide. Climate change, alongside increasing droughts, threatens river basins and fresh water supplies in general. Inequitable access to water further exacerbates the problem.
In 2022, 2.2 billion people (1 in 4 people) lacked safely managed drinking water, with unequal regional coverage. Furthermore, 3.4 billion people (2 out of 5 people) lacked safely managed sanitation. While, 2 billion people (1 in 4 people) did not have basic hygiene services, with menstrual health constituting a whole different problem.
Global and regional drinking water coverage, 2015–2022, by WHO & UNICEF.
UNICEF and the World Health Organisation informs us that no SDG region is on track to achieve safe drinking water, sanitation and hygiene by 2030. The overall progress rate in low-income countries needs to increase by 6 times to meet the global target — the water quality standards are still too low.Notably, the United Nations estimates that the global population is projected to reach 9.7 billion by 2050, putting immense pressure on freshwater resources. UNICEF predicts that 35 million more children worldwide will be living in areas of extremely high water stress by 2050.
A collective effort for a sustainable future
Tackling global water scarcity requires a diffused approach. Investing in sustainable water management practices, improving water infrastructure in vulnerable regions, and addressing the climate crisis to ensure water supply for all.
Remember, every action counts. By making mindful choices about the food we eat, and implementing simple water-saving measures in our daily lives, we can make sure that everyone has access to clean water, a fundamental right for all.
Calculate your water footprint
It is important to have a clear picture about our personal water consumption, in order to make informed choices about our daily life habits. This hidden water use goes beyond the obvious — showering, washing dishes, and watering the lawn. It accounts for all the freshwater we use directly and indirectly every day. It encompasses the water used for food production, manufacture the clothes we wear, and produce the countless products we consume daily. Websites like the Water Footprint Calculator and the Water Footprint Network offer online calculators. Simply input your location, dietary habits, and lifestyle choices, and these tools will estimate our daily water use, giving you an insight into your overall water footprint and water footprint benchmarks more in general.
Simple steps: how to reduce our own water footprint
The situation may seem daunting, but there is hope. We can take action to reduce water consumption, saving water and collectively contributing to a more sustainable future for the environment. To minimise indirect water use is the priority. Even small water-saving measures in our daily lives can make a big difference.
Every minute we save in the shower helps reduce our water footprint — aim for shorter showers. A leaky faucet or other kinds of household leaks can waste litres of water every day — we can fix that drip. We should run our washing machine and dishwasher only with full loads. And, purchase water-efficient appliances — the idea is to look for washing machines, dishwashers, and even showerheads with water-saving features. By watering our lawn early in the morning, you can minimise evaporation. We can also install a water butt to collect rainwater for watering our plants.
The water footprint calculator from the Water Footprint Network prioritises capturing data on aspects we can directly control in our daily lives, like water usage at home. Interestingly, it asks for the number of coffee and tea cups consumed per day. However, the tool neglects transportation methods, as they might involve broader infrastructure and societal changes. Still, I feel we should be called accountable for our transportation choices, when it comes to car usage or flight frequency.
Detail of Water Footprint Network's calculator.
Water footprint of animal products
By incorporating less animal products, and especially less meat into our diets, we can significantly reduce our water footprint. It is common knowledge that meat (particularly red meat) diets have a higher water footprint than plant-based diets. But how much water goes to produce a kilogram of red meat? Beef production (15,415 litres of water per kilogram) generally requires significantly more water compared to chicken (17,093 litres/kg), pork (4,325 litres/kg) and fish. Unfortunately, there is not a definitive statistic for the water demand of fish production, yet we can look at the LCA of a specific fishery or aquaculture operations. It is clear that reducing red meat and dairy use can go a long way, as the majority of livestock is fed corn and soy; not to mention water contamination caused by manure.
Understanding product water footprints
We might be familiar with carbon footprints, yet water footprints are not any less important. The water footprint of a product encompasses the total volume ofwater used throughout the entire production chain, from growing and sourcing raw materials, to processing, packaging, and finally, transportation.
In this context, the water footprint calculator from the Water Footprint Network asking for your income —“What is your gross yearly income? (Only that part of income which is consumed by you”) — can be a proxy for indirect water use. People with higher incomes tend to consume more goods and services. While not a perfect measure, it offers some insight into the hidden water embedded in the things we consume. On the other hand, defining “consumed income” can be subjective.
Instead of income, the calculator could ask:
- How often do you buy new clothes, electronics, or furniture?
- How often do you take a flight?
- For pescatarian or meta-eaters — How often do you consume fish and/or meat (type by type)?
Coffee vs tea: what can consumers do?
By putting these suggestions to work, we can make informed choices about our dietary habits, but also our coffee and tea use. Less consumption translates into a lower overall water footprint for everyone.
Coffee fuels our mornings and sustain us throughout our long afternoon hours. I was rather shocked to find out that behind the comforting aroma lies a great environmental impact. Coffee is responsible for a significantly higher water footprint compared to tea — a single cup of coffee (equal to 125 millilitres) requires 132 litres of water, whereas tea only 27 l every 250 ml. This difference stems from factors such as plant growth, harvesting, processing methods and transportation. Coffee plants are thirstier than their tea counterparts, and coffee processing often demands for a great amount of water during the processing phase, like when it comes to washing the coffee beans.
Additionally, coffee farming can contribute to water pollution through fertiliser runoff and improper wastewater disposal from processing facilities. Tea equally requires fertilisers and pesticides. On the other hand, deforestation for tea plantations can disrupt natural water cycles and increase soil erosion in sensitive regions of the world.
So, what can we do as conscientious sippers? The Water Footprint Network promotes responsible water use, encouraging us to make conscious choices and support sustainable brands. As consumers, we can seek certifications like Rainforest Alliance or Fairtrade for coffee and tea. These certifications promote sustainable farming practices, aimed at saving water. Additionally, we can limit our daily use of coffee, by preferring less water intensive hot beverages.
Matcha kit.
Instant boost or anxiety aid? Coffee vs matcha vs Yerba Mate
Are there healthier, more sustainable alternatives to coffee? Matcha and Yerba Mate account for considerably higher energising and anxiety-reducing properties.
Coffee delivers provides an immediate kick thanks to its caffeine content. However, this can also lead to crashes later in the day. Conversely, matcha, a shade-grown green tea powder, offers a sustained energy burst along with L-theanine. This last chemical compound constitutes an amino acid that consistently improves cognitive function, while counterbalancing the anxious effects of caffeine.
Matcha has a lower caffeine content — 30-60mg per a single serving (1-2 teaspoons) — compared to a 250ml cup of brewed coffee (95mg of caffeine) and of Yerba Mate (around 70mg). Nonetheless, matcha is rich in antioxidants, particularly epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) which may have neuroprotective effects. Studies suggest that its use may help lower cortisol, a stress hormone. This can contribute to a calmer overall state.
By taking our time to prepare our matcha and savour its taste, we can further promote relaxation and mindfulness. This whole leaf tea powder requires whisking, a process which can call for a little extra time and skilfulness, unless an electric whisker is being used to accomplish the ultimate frothy effect. Its iconic earthy and slightly sweet notes recall freshly cut grass. It goes without saying that the best potential benefits and tastefulness correspond to high-quality matcha.
Yerba Mate, a traditionally South American herb, provides a quite unique blend of energy and focus. It contains not only caffeine but also theophylline and theobromine — which contribute to a longer-lasting energy boost compared to coffee. Specifically, theobromine provides a minor energy burst and slightly improves the mood. It can also be found in cocoa beans, chocolate (especially dark chocolate), and guarana. As compared to caffeine, theophylline stimulates the central nervous system and heart but is way less potent. Theophylline is present in small amounts also in coffee and cocoa beans.
Vitamins B complex, C, and minerals like potassium and magnesium, are abundant in Yerba Mate. Culturally rooted in South America, it was first sipped by the Guarani and the Tupi communities, respectively in Northern Argentina and Southern Brazil. In Argentina, Uruguay and Paraguay, this incredible herb is still widely consumed.
It is traditionally enjoyed from a gourd (calabaza) with a metal straw that is equipped with a filter head (bombilla). It is perfectly fine to consume Yerba Mate alone. Yet, occasionally embracing the social aspect on occasion of gatherings with friends, family and even strangers at times — “pasando el mate”; namely, “passing the mate hand in hand”)— can be a rewarding way to connect with the origins of this drink and foster a sense of community.
Its earthy and bitter flavour, personally reminds me of tobacco, just like green tea does. Buying Yerba Mate in bulk can be more cost-effective, if you plan to consume it regularly. Additionally, steeping Yerba Mate in a larger quantity, either in a teapot or a French press, can also be very convenient. Still, the practice demands for a thermos of boiling water that allows for regular refills.
Yerba Mate kit.
The world of teas: not only healthy but also tasty
It is not just about energy. These plant-based beverages offer a range of potential health benefits. Coffee might boast potential benefits for liver health, and even type 2 diabetes prevention. However, high intake can negatively impact blood pressure and cholesterol.
Matcha antioxidants can have benefits for cardiovascular health, weight management, detoxification, and even reduce the risk of certain cancers. While, Yerba Mate might boost the immune system, aid digestion, while reducing the risks of developing multiple chronic conditions.
The world of tea offers a vast landscape of flavours and experiences. Fruity Red Rooibos and violet black tea are my absolute favourite. These vibrant infusions show not only captivating colours and aromas but also a set of natural properties and a refreshing approach to hydration.
A naturally caffeine-free red herb is combined with a whole array of dried fruits — apple, mandarin; beetroot; bramble, lemongrass and eucalyptus leaf; hibiscus; and carrot peels. The earthy and caramel taste that is typical of South African Red Rooibos mingle with the warm and refreshing kiss of eucalyptus and citrus. Each sip of fruited red tea is a delightful moment, bursting with vitamins, minerals and antioxidants.
The Khoisan people were the first ones to savour this herbal tea, that grows exclusively in the Cederberg region of the Western Cape Province. Before harvesting, the plant is exposed to temperatures that dip below zero in the winter and above 40°C in the summer. Following processing, the leaves are either fully-oxidised giving Red Rooibos, or slightly oxidised, resulting in Green Rooibos with more of a green tea-like flavour.
The latter is a black tea, an intriguing beverage with the addition of vibrantly coloured violet. The robust character of black tea mingles with delicate floral notes, creating a complex experience. This black tea exemplifies an all-time obsession of mine about viola odorata.
Loose leaf fruity Red Rooibos and violet black tea.
Navigating tea & coffee: a guide to daily use and rotation
Coffee, matcha, Yerba Mate, jointly with a wide variety of green teas. But with so many possibilities, how to navigate everyday consumption and create a mindful rotation throughout the day?
Mornings demand a potent energy boost, where coffee is the first choice. Its high caffeine content delivers the quick jolt we are looking for, to kickstarting our day. However, coffee's effects can fade later in the day, potentially leading to a crash.
Matcha can represent a valid alternative. It brings a smoother energy lift, with its moderate caffeine level and L-theanine.
As the day progresses, Yerba Mate also emerges as a contender, providing a long-lasting energy boost. I personally prefer not to consume more than 1-2 cups of Yerba Mate per time in the afternoon. While I use a cast-iron teapot to brew loose leaf Yerba Mate, I cannot say no to the bombilla.
The afternoon can be a tricky time, where you want to stay focused. Green teas, like Sencha or Bancha can be our companions.
Green teas, including Sencha and Bancha, offer a range of experiences and health benefits. Their lower caffeine content translates to a milder and more gradual energy lift.
For an even gentler option, we can adopt Bancha, a green tea with even less caffeine content than most green teas. Bancha constitutes the prime choice for those particularly sensitive to caffeine's stimulating effects. A subtle grassy note characterises Bancha, together with a slightly sweeter taste. On the other hand, Sencha provides grassy, more astringent notes and a stronger stimulating effect..
As the day draws to a close, here comes the time for herbal teas to shine. They are naturally caffeine-free, and perfect for promoting relaxation and preparing for a restful night's sleep. Similarly to Yerba Mate in the afternoon, I like to brew large quantities of loose leaf herbal tea to enjoy in the evening. It is that ritual that I have at the end of the day.
While coffee generally reigns supreme, these natural infusions offer an attractive and hydrating alternative. With a lower caffeine content, they represent a perfect option for those who seek a flavourful way to stay hydrated throughout the day. It is truly easy to crave for a cup of one of these kinds of tea, that you can consume either hot or cold.
Cafetière and coral red cup.
Creating your personal blend
For those of us who completely rely on coffee, the idea of reducing coffee intake might seem daunting. However, integrating more tea into our routine can be a gradual and flavourful process. By replacing some of your coffee with tea throughout the day, we can still enjoy a stimulating beverage while potentially discovering new flavour profiles and getting all the potential health benefits that come with a steaming cup of tea.
Caffeine sensitivity can vary from person to person. So, let's pay attention to how we feel after consuming different beverages. By understanding the caffeine content and potential effects of each drink, we can create a daily rotation that caters to your energy needs. Feel free to experiment and find what works best for you and helps you navigate your day with focus, calmness, and thoughtful thinking for the future of our planet!