Top tips to be water efficient for World Water Day

On the 22nd March we observe World Water Day! Every year focusing on the importance of freshwater for our planet. Water is under threat from a number of challenges. Rapidly growing populations, changes in farming, food production and the related industries, not to mention the impacts of climate change. Research shows that around 2.2 billion people live without access to safe water.

One statistic shows that globally we are using six times as much water today than what was used 100 years ago. The things we do today contributes to that change. So we think it’s time to take action!

We’ve gathered our favourite tips for ensuring water sustainability:

1. Shower power

By reducing your shower time by just 2 minutes you will save circa 20 litres of water!

If you create your own 4-minute playlist or this one from Waterwise on Spotify, you’ll be having optimised showers in no time.

2. Shop sustainably

Studies tell us that a healthy pescatarian or vegetarian diet could cut your foods water consumption by around 55%!

Research ‘waterfootprint’ to see how the foods you’re eating might be impacting the worlds water.

3. Low-key laundry

52 litres of water go into every laundry wash. Let’s make the most of it by ensuring you have filled the machine, and try wearing your trousers for another day! We won’t tell if you won’t.

4. Sink saving

When you brush your teeth be sure to turn off the taps. On average we use 18 litres (if brushing your teeth for the recommended 2 minutes). Meaning 36 litres a day, 252 litres a week, or 13,104 litres a year goes to waste if we don’t turn that top off.

5. Flushed away

Think of the three P’s: pee, poop and paper. Anything else that gets flushed down the toilet could cause blockages, pipe bursts and more.

6. Two chores, One tap

When it’s time to do the weeks washing up (how did you stack it so high?), fill a jug with the water used while you wait for it to heat up. Then water the plants. Two chores nailed in one!

For more ideas and information check out the blog over at Water Aid.