“The world cannot increase its supply of fresh water: all it can do is change the way it uses it.” (Alex Kerby)*
Although the ready supply of water to our homes, gives the illusion of a never ending supply of clean water, there are limitations to this precious resource. In England & Wales we only have 1,334 cubic metres (m3) per person a year.
The average person in England and Wales uses 150 litres of water every day. We use almost 50% more water than 25 years ago.
During droughts, the sources of our water (rivers and lakes) are put under strain affecting fish, wetland birds and other wildlife. Sources of food and breeding sites for wildlife can be lost and fish can die through lack of oxygen.
Actions
Water saving in the home
- Firstly tackle your awareness. Have a water meter installed to measure your water usage.
- Place a hippo in your toilet cistern and reduce the amount of water used in each flush (up to 3 litres a flush).
- Take a shower instead of a bath and buy a water saving shower head (6.5 litres saved per minute).
- Turn the tap off when you brush your teeth (5 litres saved a day). If the entire adult population of England and Wales did this, we could save 180 million litres a day, enough to supply nearly 500,000 houses.
- Replace worn washers in your taps so they don’t drip (90 litres saved a week).
- Look into using a grey water or rainwater system to flush your toilet.
- Only use a full load when using the washing machine and use the economy setting. If you are buying a new washing machine or dishwasher, get one that is ‘water efficient’ (A rated).
Water saving in the garden
- Buy a water butt and use the rainwater you collect to water your garden. A water butt with a filter and treatment system could also provide water for washing machines and toilets.
- Use mulching (applying a layer of straw, paper or woodchip to the soil) to preserve moisture in the soil.
- A sprinkler uses more water in an hour than a family of four use in a day. Use a watering can to water your plants and a bucket instead of a hose when washing your car.
- Plant flowers and shrubs that can survive in hot, dry conditions.
Water saving at work
- Make your workplace aware of the monetary benefits of water saving (some simple changes could save a company 40% on their water bill each year). Put them in touch with Envirowise which offers UK businesses free, independent, confidential advice and support on practical ways to increase profits, minimise waste and reduce environmental impact.
- Encourage your workmates to conserve water.
Author: Carolyn O'Hanlon, volunteer
