Climate change has revealed that water is not as abundant a resource as we once believed. As droughts and fires become increasingly common and utility bills skyrocket, engaging in water conservation on an individual level has taken on new urgency.
We spoke with Alisha McFetridge, Co-Founder of RainStick Shower, about how this organization is creating a water-saving solution for Canadian homes through innovative and sustainable technology.
What was the “spark” that inspired you to start your organization?
The inspiration for RainStick Shower began in the Okanagan Valley, Canada’s only desert region. Both Sean McFetridge, Co-Founder and acting CEO, and I grew up in this arid environment, where the importance of water conservation was deeply ingrained. Sean’s background in resource management, from his time as a lifeguard to his role as a national energy manager at Home Depot, coupled with my tech expertise and passion for sustainability from my international travels, fuelled our mission to create a water-saving solution for the home.
What do you consider to be your biggest success? Can you share any stories of the impact your work has had that have surprised you?
Our biggest success is the creation of the RainStick Shower, which has won multiple innovation awards, including TIME Magazine’s list of Best Inventions of 2023, Best of CES 2022 Innovations Award Honouree, and the Gold Sustainable Standout Award at the Kitchen and Bath Industry Show. One customer reported saving over 40,000 litres of water and 2,192 kilowatt-hours in their first year.
Depending on your location you can save as much as US$1,100 annually thanks to RainStick, based on a two-person household. This not only highlights the financial benefits but also demonstrates the significant reduction in water and energy usage that RainStick contributes to environmental conservation.
How can water conservation help make the world better?
Conservation is crucial in addressing the global water crisis. By reducing water usage, we can mitigate the effects of droughts, ensure sustainable water supplies for future generations, and decrease the energy required for water heating and treatment.
In Canada, where utility bills are rising and climate change is leading to more frequent droughts and fires, products like RainStick can play a pivotal role in making homes more resilient and environmentally friendly. Notably, the Residential End Uses of Water study shows minimal change in showering patterns, with the average duration in Canada holding steady at 7.8 minutes per shower and the flow rate decreasing by just 0.1 gallons per minute from 1999 to 2016. This highlights the urgent need for innovative solutions like RainStick to drive meaningful change.
What are some of the challenges you typically face in carrying out your purpose?
One of the primary challenges we face is the initial resistance to adopting new technology. Helping homeowners, builders, interior designers, and architects understand the long-term benefits of water-saving devices and overcoming the perception that water is an abundant resource are ongoing efforts. Additionally, educating our market that RainStick is an “extremely hygienic” shower appliance due to our robust three-stage cleaning process is crucial.
Are there any upcoming initiatives or projects you’d like to share?
We are excited to announce a new model of the RainStick Shower designed based on the feedback we received from some of the top interior designers in North America. It is set to be officially launched in early 2025 but is available for pre-order now. This model will be more cost-effective and easier to integrate into residential, commercial, and recreational homes, allowing for wider adoption in sustainable building projects. You can also check out our latest BC-located off-grid installation in a property tour by Kerry Tarnow, which is available for viewing online.
What can people do to help support your mission?
Individuals can support our mission by choosing water-efficient products like RainStick Shower and advocating for water conservation in their communities. Educating oneself about the importance of water conservation and implementing small changes, such as fixing leaks and using water-saving appliances, can collectively make a significant impact. Supporting policies and initiatives that promote sustainable water use is also crucial. As a startup, every little bit counts — so tell your friends.
This story was featured in the Make The World Better Magazine:
