Would the energy inherent in constructing a plastic pool equal that of driving to and from the beach all summer? Photo / Getty Images
Would the energy inherent in constructing a plastic pool equal that of driving to and from the beach all summer? Photo / Getty Images
Cooling mechanism, living ecosystem, livestock hydration unit, drought mitigation strategy – a pool has a myriad of uses.
I once spent a delightful summer utilising a water-trough as a pool.
It wasn't installed specifically for the purpose. It was a functioning cattle refreshment facility, and I merely confused them by regularly bathing in it.
There is little that's more rewarding after a dusty day spent in stifling heat than to lounge on the soft algae growing on the harsh concrete of at rough. It's even better if you can then hold prolonged eye contact with a baffled goat while it drinks deeply from your wallow.
It was lovely, apart from an agging concern that the small nymph-like creatures that dwelt in the water might somehow enter my body and cause irreparable discomfort.
We are privileged to spend most of our time living in a society of water gluttons.
The swimming pool used to be a symbol of affluence. Now pools of a reasonable size and depth for recreational plunging can be purchased cheaply from chain stores. Of course, they are plastic and prone to perishing after a few seasons. Is it possible they have a lesser environmental impact than repeatedly driving to the beach over the course of the summer?
The real cost of the cheap pool is in fencing it. Even inflatable ones must be surrounded by an insurmountable perimeter. Still, once summer's rays have receded, and you have deflated the pool, you find yourself left with an oddly convenient fenced area which is ideal for raising small animals or poultry should you wish. Quite what you will do with these animals when the next swim season arises should best be pondered before populating the area.
However, pool season is also barbecue season, and reduced food miles for your poolside nibbles may just make up the enviro-cost of the plastic pool plonked on the lawn. You can also comfort yourself in the knowledge that you have not a pool but a reservoir. Should drought strike, the water can be reused on the garden once it's a little too murky for swimming. You don't even have to wait for a drought. If you are worried about water-greeblies, use the simple mantra "Once in doubt, bail it out'.
I'm usually a little too lazy for frequent bailing. I prefer to endure a period where I assume it'll be fine for a few more days so long as I don't put my head under. But when you do empty it, the lugging all of that water is cheaper than a gym membership, and a great reminder of the luxury we have in this country that means we don't have to carry water on a daily basis.
We are privileged to spend most of our time living in a society of water gluttons. Not for us the unrelenting rigors of water carrying. Cool, drinkable water flows at the turn of a tap. It's one of the greatest luxuries of the modern age and worth thinking about as you laze in the pool. It may not last.
In some parts of California existing pools cannot be refilled due to the drought and new pools are banned. The American dream of an endless summer is all too true. Things are so bad that some areas are attempting drought mitigation by banning restaurants from serving drinking water unless specifically requested. The phrase 'drop in a bucket' comes to mind.
It's all worth pondering as you lounge in your pool. And one day you may even master the alchemy required to maintain a crystal clear one. As someone who never excelled in chemistry, I invariably end up with a murky pond that becomes a breeding ground for mosquitoes and the occasional frog. At the very least it seems I can create a functional ecosystem.
