New Research Shows Most Americans are Unaware of Daily Water Consumpti...

Joplin, MO (October 21, 2021)- In recognition of the annual observance of the Value of Water's Imagine a Day Without Water,Missouri American Water is sharing new research findings showing Americans underestimate the amount of water used daily by 90%. Most believe they use less than 100 gallons of water each day, when the actual number is more than 2,000 gallons on average (according to Water Footprint Network). This figure considers the water consumed by individuals directly (e.g. dishwashing or watering the lawn) and indirectly (e.g. the water required to produce food).

Research was conducted by global research agency Opinium on behalf of American Water, the parent company of Missouri American Water. In addition to underestimating water usage, the findings also revealed Americans are largely unaware of the variety of ways in which water impacts their everyday lives.

"We all know water is a vital part of our daily lives, but we often don't consider how much we as individuals consume, or what we would do without the benefit of reliable water service," said Matt Barnhart, senior operations director. "With more than 530 miles of underground water pipe in the Joplin Operation it is vital to continually invest in the system in order to maintain and improve reliability." Missouri American Water invested more than $260 million in system improvements in operations throughout the state in 2020.

Imagine a Day Without Water also addresses the importance of incorporating lifestyle changes to conserve water. One of the easiest ways to conserve is to turn the faucet off while brushing teeth. Other ways include only running dishwashers and washing machines will full loads and planting native landscaping.

"By making small lifestyle changes and reducing your own water use we can make a big difference," said Barnhart.

Missouri American Water, a subsidiary of American Water (NYSE: AWK), is the largest investor-owned water utility in the state, providing high-quality and reliable water and/or wastewater services to approximately 1.5 million people. For more information, visit www.missouriamwater.com and follow Missouri American Water on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook.

About American Water

With a history dating back to 1886, American Water is the largest and most geographically diverse U.S. publicly traded water and wastewater utility company. The company employs more than 7,000 dedicated professionals who provide regulated and market-based drinking water, wastewater and other related services to 15 million people in 46 states. American Water provides safe, clean, affordable, and reliable water services to our customers to help make sure we keep their lives flowing. For more information, visit amwater.com and follow American Water on Twitter, Facebook, and LinkedIn.