In this episode, Cees Engelen, founder of Aarde Werk, discusses the intricacies of water management and sustainable practices for households. He addresses common issues homeowners face, such as malfunctioning irrigation systems and the effective use of gray water.
Meet Cees Engelen
Cees Engelen is a landscaping and water management expert based in Australia and the founder of Aarde Werk, a company specializing in sustainable landscaping practices. Originally from Haarlem, Netherlands, Cees is dedicated to promoting self-sufficiency, environmental stewardship, and organic gardening.
With over 2.5 years in the landscaping industry, Cees has developed a passion for regenerative landscaping, focusing on practices that enhance natural ecosystems. Cees is known for implementing effective water management systems, such as the use of Hydra Rock, which helps improve irrigation efficiency and plant health.
About the episode
This podcast episode takes listeners on an eye-opening journey through the diverse water management challenges Cees’ clients face. From sprawling properties to modest urban homes, he reveals the everyday issues they all grapple with.
One of Cees’ biggest frustrations is the prevalence of faulty irrigation systems and improper gray water use. He shares a case where a client used gray water from an outdoor shower to water their orchard. Unfortunately, the soap content in the water caused plant diseases.
Cees then introduces Hydra Rock, a water buffer system he’s clearly passionate about. It absorbs up to 90% of its volume in water and filters gray water through layers of sand and charcoal. As a result, it promotes healthier fruit trees, reduces disease, and improves crop yields—showcasing the system’s effectiveness.
In addition, Cees emphasizes the value of collecting rainwater for gardening. He explains that this practice fosters independence and self-sufficiency, especially for homeowners. These small-scale systems, he notes, are affordable and accessible to many.
He also points out common mistakes, such as flushing toilets with potable water or inefficient dishwashing practices. These examples serve as wake-up calls, encouraging listeners to reassess their water habits.
Throughout the conversation, Cees challenges common misconceptions about sustainable water practices. Many assume that water-saving systems are too complex or costly. However, he argues that societal norms have normalized excessive water use, which deters change.
To counter this mindset, Cees shares practical solutions. One example is showering in a bucket to collect water for plants. He acknowledges the difficulties but remains committed to these strategies. He also encourages connecting gray water systems to redirect water from sinks and showers into the garden.
In conclusion
Cees brings valuable expertise in landscaping and sustainable water management, providing listeners with credible information and practical solutions. The episode offers practical advice that listeners can easily implement in their own homes. It raises awareness about the importance of managing water as a finite resource and encourages a more mindful approach to consumption.
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