Seven steps to stem water waste

15 May 2006:

As England and Wales reel from news that this winter was the driest in 80 years - firms in the South are being encouraged to take six simple steps to prevent unnecessary water waste at work.

The South of England received just a third of its average monthly rainfall in January.(1) Not only could improved water efficiency help lessen the impact of this reduced rainfall and potential drought measures on the regions' businesses, it could make a big impact on their bottom line by reducing rising utility costs too.

This call comes from Envirowise which offers free advice and support to firms looking to become more resource efficient and save money. It recommends the following six steps to help stem water waste:

Turn taps off fully and replace leaking hoses and worn tap washers for a quick and cheap way of saving water. In staff washrooms, push-button taps can use up to half the water used through conventional taps.
Take meter readings regularly and carefully - if you are paying for water you cannot account for then you may have a leak.
Reduce your need for mains supply water by looking at ways you could recycle 'grey water' for cleaning equipment, vehicles or outside areas, for example.
Reduce the amount of clean water used in every toilet flush by fitting a water displacement device into cisterns - these are often available free of charge from your local water company.
Consider appointing 'water wardens' to take responsibility for water minimisation measures in each area of your site.
Contact your water services provider - it can supply you with a wide range of free water saving advice.
Run a staff competition to identify water-saving ideas or organise a brainstorm.
Envirowise's message to businesses comes as the government appeals for individuals to join forces across the UK to reduce the impact of water shortages. Speaking at water industry conference Source 2006, Environment and Climate Change Minister, Elliot Morley, said it is not simply down to the water companies, government, or consumers alone, to take action:

"Only a joint effort from every one of us to understand what we can do, and then do it, will reduce the risk of shortages should this period of low rainfall extend to the summer. Consumers and businesses can telephone water companies or visit their websites for advice on making more efficient use of their water. This doesn't mean draconian cutbacks, but common sense ways of ensuring water isn't just wasted." (2)

(1) Source: [www.metoffice.gov.uk] - regional rainfall figures for January 2006. The South West received 33% of the average, the South East 32%.
(2) Source: [www.defra.gov.uk/news/2006/060202e.htm] (2 Feb 2006)


For further information and advice:

Web: [www.envirowise.gov.uk]