Think green ... live clean - Water conservation
Water is one of our most precious resources and in the Arun district, we're lucky to be surrounded by beautiful coastlines, rivers, and green spaces. But even here, water conservation is more important than ever. Climate change means the risk of droughts and pressure on our natural resources makes every drop count.
Why water conservation matters
- environmental impact - saving water helps protect our local rivers, wetlands, and wildlife. It also reduces the amount of energy needed to treat and move water through pipes-a process known as pumping-which in turn lowers carbon emissions
- cost savings - using less water means lower utility bills for households and businesses
- community resilience - ensuring a sustainable water supply helps our community stay strong in the face of climate challenges
Simple everyday actions we can all do to save water at home ...
Fix leaks promptly
A dripping tap can waste over 5,000 litres of water a year. Check your taps, toilets, and outdoor hoses regularly.
Use water-efficient appliances
Look for the 'water efficiency label' when buying washing machines, dishwashers and showerheads.
Turn off the tap
Don't leave the tap running while brushing your teeth or washing dishes. It's a habit for some but one that can be broken easily - it makes a huge difference.
Shower rather than bath
If you can, shower instead of having a bath.
The average shower uses much less water than running a bath, so unless you're having showers that last more than 15 to 20 minutes, showering will save you money on your water and your energy bills. also It lowers your carbon footprint too!
The energy savings trust found that swapping one bath a week to a 4minute shower can save you up to £9 a year on energy bills, and £13 a year on water bills. Think of the savings if you swap multiple baths a week.
Spend less time in the shower
Cutting a minute off your shower time could save the average four-person household £35 a year on energy bills and another £30 off the water bill if you have a water meter.
Change your shower head
If you haven't got one already, try replacing your shower head with a water efficient one.
According to the Energy Savings Trust, replacing your shower head with a water efficient one could save the average four-person household £38 on gas for heating, and £53 on water if you have a meter.
This could save you between 150kg CO2e and 250kg CO2e per year depending on your showers current flow rate.
The figures above are consistent with previous estimates from sources like Money Saving Expert and government-backed energy efficiency campaigns
Useful links:
How much water does a low flow shower head save?
Top tips to save energy and money in the bathroom - Energy Saving Trust
Get a water meter
A water meter means that you are getting billed only for what you use, rather than estimated usage - a good rule of thumb is if there are more or the same number of bedrooms as people in your home, consider having one installed.
A water meter should be installed free of charge, unless it is deemed impractical such as in flats with shared pipes.
Understanding how much water you are using can help you reduce your usage, therefore saving you money on both your water and energy bills.
Smart gardening
Water your garden early in the morning or late in the evening to reduce evaporation. Choose drought-resistant plants and mulch to retain moisture.
Install a water butt to collect rainwater for watering your garden - it's free, sustainable, and better for your plants as it often has a lower pH (a measure of how acidic/basic water is) which can have a positive effect on nutrient availability (the presence and accessibility of essential nutrients that plants need for growth and productivity).
As water resources are under pressure from climate change and population growth, reducing the amount of mains water used for your gardening can help as well as lowering your carbon footprint.
Read more: Water: collecting, storing and re-using / RHS Gardening
Community action in Arun
We're proud of the efforts already underway in our district-from local schools teaching water-saving habits to community gardens using sustainable irrigation. Keep up the good work!
Final thought and some useful links
Water conservation isn't just about saving a resource - it's about protecting our future. By making small changes today, we can ensure a cleaner, greener Arun for generations to come.
How to reduce your carbon footprint in the morning | Pawprint
Nine popular water saving tips - suggested by you - Energy Saving Trust