Earth Day 2014

Without plumbers who connect homes and businesses to wastewater treatment plants, there would be no collection or transport of sewage, let alone food waste sent down the drain by disposers. So this Earth Day, I salute the local plumbers, trade associations and code officials that help make our world a safer place.

This past week I authored an article for Plumbing & Hydronic Contractor that mentions how food waste disposers can help the environment. My hope was that plumbers become the missing link between homeowners and resource recovery (aka treatment) plants. After all, it is the plumbers who normally install our toilets, sinks and disposers, and they have the first opportunity to help people understand plumbing products, as well as providing advice on their proper use. Moreover, they are usually considered by homeowners to be the voice of authority and knowledge, inspiring confidence.

Image from Terriermandotcom

Code officials are another important group in this industry because without their input, our plumbing would not properly convey sewage in a safe and efficient manner. Later this week, IAPMO (International Association of Plumbing and Mechanical Officials) will convene in Arlington, VA. A panel discussion on the first day entitled “Solutions for Wastewater Problems” will feature InSinkErator’s Casey Furlong, who will discuss why municipalities are now encouraging disposer use as a way to divert organics from landfills to wastewater facilities. Casey will also address misconceptions about disposers including water use and clogging of sewers. Clogs in sewers caused by deposits of calcium soaps are sometimes blamed on disposers (see Clear the FOG). But these blockages occur in sewers everywhere, including places where disposers are non-existent, putting the falsehood to rest.  If you are at the symposium, drop by and see Casey.