Sustainable Fountains

Without thinking about it too much, you might consider all fountains to be ‘green’ or eco-friendly. Not all fountains, however, are made the same. The water source, materials, and energy that supplies, holds, and puts the water in motion have an environmental impact. These factors are important to consider even if you’re not someone who is that concerned about their carbon footprint. Purchasing a sustainable fountain leads to decreased cost over time, and in many cases, it may also mean less maintenance and an easier setup.

Direct Line Fountains Don’t Recycle Water Themselves Requiring Additional Energy and Money:

Your water source is dictated by the type of fountain you select. There are a variety of great eco-friendly and wallet-friendly options, but the first model that you might want to rule out would be any type of fountain that requires a direct line. Not only does a direct line ensure that the water isn’t being recycled by the fountain itself, there is also an additional cost and additional energy required to get water from the source, through your line, and to the your fountain. Instead of looking at direct line fountains, consider using a natural free flowing water source like a stream, or start looking at fountains that recycle the water once added.

Bamboo is the Perfect Eco-Friendly, Structural, and Functional Fountain Material:

There are many natural materials that are aesthetically pleasing, and if you choose the correct ones, you will be able to create a durable and long-lasting fountain that’s eco-friendly. Locally sourced rocks can be cost effective and have age and history. Bamboo is another popular “green” material that works particularly well for fountains. Bamboo can be used in building the structure of the fountain and it can also transport the water. Don’t feel bad about cutting it up or hollowing it out, however, because bamboo grows extremely fast.

Solar Energy is a Cost-Effective Way to Recycle Water:

The sun, one of our greatest resources, plays an integral role in providing the energy to recycle the water in a fountain. Solar energy can provide the power needed to recycle water at less of a price than you might think. Consider how common solar technology is now: you see it for pathway lights, cell phone chargers, and on more and more buildings. There are some excellent options online for small, portable weatherproof solar panels. They can easily be adapted to power any electrically driven pump which could come in a fountain kit or be purchased separately.

Piecing together a sustainable fountain while using an environmentally-friendly blueprint is far more rewarding than an out of the box or professionally installed option. When you consider the impact you’re making for the planet, find organic parts, and throw in a little innovation, a custom sustainable fountain could be yours for a lifetime.

Paige One enjoys writing about a variety of topics and enjoys decorating a home with eco-friendly decor pieces, especially if it means incorporating outdoor fountains.