Just as Americans have discovered the hidden energy costs…
“Just as Americans have discovered the hidden energy costs in a multitude of products-in refrigerating a steak, for example, on its way to the butcher-they are about to discover the hidden water costs. Beginning with the water that irrigated the corn that was fed to the steer, the steak may have accounted for 3,500 gallons. The water that goes into a 1,000-pound steer would float a destroyer. It takes 14,935 gallons of water to grow a bushel of wheat, 60,000 gallons to produce a ton of steel, 120 gallons to put a single egg on the breakfast table.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
The quote highlights the often‑overlooked water footprint of everyday goods, showing that production of food and materials consumes massive volumes of water, comparable to or exceeding their energy use.
In simple terms: Products hide huge water usage behind their price tags.
Key Takeaway
Water consumption is a hidden cost in production.
Themes
sustainability
resource management
environmental impact
food production
Mood
concerned
informative
Type
informative
environmental
When to use this quote
- Choosing groceries
- Evaluating product packaging
- Policy on water scarcity
- Corporate sustainability reporting
Key Concepts
hidden externalities
life‑cycle analysis
Practical Applications
- Incorporate water‑use labels on consumer goods
- Prioritize low‑water‑intensity materials
Questions to Reflect On
- How can consumers make informed choices about water use?
- What policies could reduce hidden water consumption?
A Different Perspective
Water footprints can vary widely by region and farming practices, so averages may mislead.