Water Conservation

We encourage the sustainable use of water through advice and information.

Water is in limited supply and predictions suggest that periods of water shortage may be on the increase. Conserving water can benefit the environment and your pocket, especially if you are on a water meter. There are many ways you can reduce your water use from simple lifestyle choices to technology and equipment you can install.

Examples of some simple measures you can take in your home to reduce your water usage:

• Remember to turn off the tap whilst you brush your teeth. A running tap can waste as much as six litres in just one minute.
• About 25% of all the clean water used in our home is flushed down the toilet. By installing a water efficient dual flush toilet or placing a water displacement device in your cistern will reduce the quantity of water used for each flush.
• Wait until you have a full load. Half load programmes on dishwashers and washing machines use more than half as much water and energy as a full load wash.
• Invest in a water butt to collect rain water that can be used to water your garden, or even wash your car.
• Take a shower instead of a bath. A quick shower will use around one third as much water as a bath.

If you are planning a building project you might consider implementing a more ambitious water saving measure:

• Install a rainwater harvesting system. Collect large amounts of rainwater for use within the home.
• Install a grey water recycling plant. Re-use the grey water produced within the house for flushing toilets.
• Plant a green roof. Green roofs offer numerous benefits including improved thermal insulation, absorbing carbon dioxide, decreasing local flooding potential and providing a habitat for wildlife.

For more information on these measures and for more ideas of how you can save water visit the Waterwise website.

Useful Links

• Anglian Water
• Environment Agency
• Defra