Saving water is not just good for the environment - it can save you money! Even though water doesn't appear to be in short supply in the UK, using less water actually means you are saving energy as treating the water that comes out of our taps is a very energy intensive process. A running tap uses between 6 to 9 litres of water a minute; a dripping tap can waste 5,500 litres a year.
Water butts allow you to capture water directly from your roof and use it in periods of dry weather. According to Waterwise an amazing 85,000 litres of rain falls on your roof every year ... & it's free!! Anything from mini rain saver kits, old plastic drums to purpose made water butts will save water.
What you can do
- Don't waste water: fix dripping taps, keep an eye on your water bill and check for leaks if higher than normal usage
- Save water in the kitchen: don't leave a tap running, avoid rinsing dirty dishes, run the dishwasher when it is fully loaded
- Save water in the bathroom: install water saving toilet flushes and shower heads, turn off taps when cleaning teeth, soaping hands or soaping in the shower
- Save water in the garden: install a water butt, mulch your plants, and only water early morning or early evening to reduce evaporation
Sources of Information
Waterwise information on saving water
Eden project tips on saving water
Friends of the Earth 13 best ways to save water
25th May 2021