World Water Week – Reducing Water Waste

With the recent extreme temperatures here in the UK, it is important for us to consider the value of water. That is why we’re raising awareness for World Water Week with a focus on water waste. The leading global event has been running annually since 1991. The event this year will be held in Stockholm, Sweden and the overarching theme is captured in three parts:

• The value of water for people and development

• The value of water for nature and climate

• The financial and economic value of water

It is no secret that issues caused by climate change are getting worse which is why it is so important events like this run at a global level. Awareness leads to action, to a solution and we are all a part of the solution. Across the world, we need to explore new ways of managing global water issues and tackling humanities biggest challenges.  

The true value of water

Due to population growth, increased urbanisation and economic development, the quantity of wastewater generated, and continuing pollution levels are increasing globally. Something must change before it is too late. Afterall, the value of water is the value of life on this planet itself. When water seems to be in plentiful supply, we can often underestimate the value of water. However, to be able to safeguard water for the benefit of everyone, we must understand water’s true, multidimensional value. How do you value water in your home and how can we help to reduce water waste to tackle these global water challenges?  

What can I do to help?

Here in the UK, we see a phenomenal amount of water waste throughout the year. The water sector and our reservoirs will come under even more pressure as we continue to have increased dry spells and droughts. This extreme heat and climate crisis will likely cause further disruption with things like hosepipe bans during the summer becoming more common place. Whilst a large part of these water-related challenges is down to water companies experiencing leaks and upgrading old water networks across the country, there is still a huge part we can play at home to help with water security.

There are many ways in which we can help improve drinking water quality and reduce our water wastage. We can help by making little changes to our daily life's. We can implement water management strategies from turning off the tap when brushing our teeth, to not using harsh, toxic chemicals to clean with. Here’s an example of some simple things you can do to help:

Helpful Tips to Reduce Water Waste at Home

• Turn the tap off when you brush your teeth

• If you have a bath, reuse the water in garden/to wash the car to protect water resources

• Keep showers down to a quick 4-minutes

• Change to a water efficient shower head.

• Washing up in a bowl or with the plug in rather than letting the tap run

• Only use the washing machine/ dishwasher when you have a full load

• Don't over water the garden – use a rain catcher/water butt and a watering can instead of a hose pipe

• Place a cistern displacement device in your toilet cistern

• Fill a jug with tap water and place this in your fridge instead of leaving the tap running until it is cold.

• Check for leaks and drips – fix any you find

• Regularly maintain your central heating system – upgrade where necessary with our energy saving packs

Why bother?

These simple tips can not only help you reduce the amount of water you waste but can also save you money on your water and energy bills. As well as increasing temperatures, here in the UK we are also experiencing increasing energy bills so even little changes can go a long way. Saving water can also improve issues surrounding food security and protecting biodiversity and ecosystems. Little changes, across lots of households will also reduce our impact on the environment and help slow down climate change. Why not check out our Going Green Board on Pinterest for some more sustainable inspiration.

*source: https://www.aquacure.co.uk/