These days, we’re all much more aware of just how important it is to maintain our essential natural resources. That includes one that we all tend to take for granted here in the UK, where water is usually available in abundance. The amazing variety of weather we receive ensures that our green and pleasant land remains just that.
Temperatures are rising, water levels sinking
However, last year we went through the hottest summer temperatures on record, with the Met Office reporting the mercury shooting above 40°C for the very first time in the UK.
This comes on the back of one of the driest winters Britain has seen since 1976, leaving us with low level reservoirs and dwindling waterways. With many experts predicting this is just the start of a ‘new normal’, saving water is on high on the agenda. In fact, Environment Agency leaders are suggesting now is the time to start cutting back on how much we use.
Saving water is good for your bank balance too
By conserving water usage, we not only help preserve this essential resource and protect the planet, we can also save money too.
Did you know, for instance, that in a typical gas-heated home, a fifth of the average bill goes on showers, baths and the hot water tap? And that the average family of four gets through…
Seven easy ways to cut back on the water we use
So, what can we do to start reducing the amount of water we use on a daily basis?
WaterUK, the organisation representing all of the UK’s water industry, has some handy and easy-to-follow hints and tips that are well worth sharing and well worth doing.
1. Take showers instead of baths: you could save an incredible 12 litres of water per minute in a shower instead of the bath. If you’re already a shower person, why not see how much quicker you can make your daily If you’re feeling brave, you could even take the Wim Hoff challenge and discover the benefits of a cold shower.
2. Make sure the dishwasher is full: on average, a dishwasher uses 10 litres of water per wash. By filling it to capacity, you can be sure you’re not wasting any excess water or electricity – and reducing your carbon footprint into the bargain.
3. Turn off the tap when brushing your teeth: a running tap can get through six litres of water a Turning off in-between starting and finishing your daily brush will keep water waste to a minimum.
4. Use kitchen water twice: rather than let the water you use to rinse veg go down the plughole, catch it in a jug or bowl and re-use it to keep thirsty houseplants going.
5. Make the most of dual flushing: most toilets have a dual flush mechanism these days, allowing a larger or smaller amount of water into the Did you know, you can save two litres per flush by using the smaller option?
6. Fill up your washing machine: by saving up dirty clothes for one big wash, you get through lower amounts of energy and water than you would with two half loads.
7. Don’t overfill the kettle: by only filling the kettle with the amount of water you need, you save on water and energy – win, win.
There are lots of other ways to cut back on water usage too – from washing your hair once a week to a cistern displacement device which reduces the amount of water per flush. Just find which ones work best for you – and you can start doing your best for the planet.