Most of us are not aware the impact that the raw materials and manufacturing process of our everyday clothing has on water levels. For example, one cotton T-shirt takes 713 gallons of water to grow the cotton needed. One pair of jeans needs 1,800 gallons of water once again to the cotton involved and the manufacturing processes. One pair of leather shoes takes 2,257 gallons of water the majority of which is due to the food and water to feed the animal, and the water involved in making rubber soles.

Food is no better, gobbling up huge amounts of water in the procurement and production process. A pound of beefrequires 1,799 gallons of water to produce, a pound of pork 576 gallons, a pound of chicken 468 gallons —even a single egg requires a surprising 53 gallons worth of water.