It can be easy to forget in the rainy old UK that water is a precious resource. In fact, many areas of the UK are under serious water stress, with water consumption set to rise, this is a real issue. Furthermore, water is of course linked to energy, which is used to treat and pump the water by water companies, and then to heat it in our homes. The energy used by water companies is extensive, with Scottish Water being the largest user of energy in Scotland! This energy is a contributing factor to pollution, global warming and habitat destruction, so if we can use water more efficiently, we can help reduce the negative impacts the water industry has on the planet, while also saving you some money!
Here are a few easy ways for you to reduce your water consumption on a daily basis:
- Cut down on meat and dairy consumption - The water footprint for dairy and chicken products is about 1.6 times larger than for pulses, and for beef it is 6 times larger. Try reducing your meat and dairy intake and discover some new delicious recipes using pulses, grains and vegetables instead!
- Turn off the tap while brushing your teeth
- Wash full loads in the washing machine and dishwasher
- Use a water butt in the garden
- Use a watering can instead of a sprinkler or hose - This will stop excessive water use and help you control which areas of your garden need more watering
- Research how often your plants and grass need to be watered - This may be a lot less than you think!
- Shower instead of bath
- Eco toilet flush or Cistern Saver - This can help you saver up to 2 to 3 litres of water with every flush!
- Use water from cooking to water your plants - This is actually really beneficial for your plants as when you boil vegetables, pasta, eggs etc. micronutrients infuse the water, making it much more nutritious for you plants than plain old tap water!
- Get that leaky tap or shower head fixed - That annoying dripping might add up to a substantial amount of water going straight down the drain!