Why should I save water?

Water is not as abundant in England and Wales as you would think. We only have 1,334 cubic metres (m³) per person a year – much less than France (3,065 m³) or even the hotter Mediterranean countries of Italy (2,785 m³) and Spain (2,775 m³).

South East England has even less water per person due to its high population density and low rainfall. The Thames Valley has only 266m³, only a fifth of the England and Wales average.

Dry winters have the biggest impact on water resources. Winter rain tops up groundwater supplies while summer rain only helps reduce water consumption as we don’t have to water our gardens or wash our cars. Saving water will make sure that the water we do get lasts, particularly as it is impossible to predict how long a drought will continue.

Water shortages don’t just affect us: they can also seriously harm our environment. Our water comes from rivers and groundwater so every drop we use has a direct effect on the environment.

Fish, wetland birds and other wildlife that rely on ponds, rivers and streams struggle to survive when these dry up or run low. Sources of food and breeding sites for wildlife can be lost and fish can die through lack of oxygen.

The average person in England and Wales uses 150 litres of water every day. Most of it is used for washing and toilet flushing, but it also includes drinking, cooking, car washing and watering the garden. We use almost 50% more water than 25 years ago, partly because of the use of power showers and other water using household appliances.

It’s vital that everyone uses water wisely and not just during a drought or if we live in an area with water restrictions.  We must use water efficiently  to make sure that we have enough water and at the same time protect our valuable natural environment, now and for future generations

We should all use water wisely every day.

There’s lots you can do to save water – here are our five top tips:

• Put a displacement device like a "Hippo" in your toilet cistern
• Turn off the tap when brushing your teeth
• Always run washing machines and dishwashers with a full load and on the economy setting
• Fix dripping taps
• Use a bowl of water to wash fruit and vegetables.

You don't have to alter your daily routine much and these tips could save you time and money!