With the August bank holiday weekend approaching and mercury levels across the UK rising once again, families and communities across the country are being urged to play their part in helping to save water.
Despite experiencing typically mixed summer weather this year, a surge in staycations and people spending time at home during has led to a higher-than-normal water demand across the country.
The call comes as a new survey reveals that nearly three quarters (74%) of UK adults think cutting the amount of water used at home is important to protect the environment. The research shows that the public’s appetite for actively reducing their water use at home is even higher, with more than 8 in 10 (84%) adults saying they try to save water at least some water in their day-to-day life.
The research also showed that:
Two in five (41%) of UK adults are worried about the UK’s water supplies running out in the next 25 year vs. only a quarter (25%) who weren’t
Only 3 in 10 (29%) have heard about the need to save water this summer
80% of those that are aware have already started being more careful about the way they use water
As part of the nationwide Water’s Worth Saving campaign, the British public are being encouraged to take simple steps to cut down on the water they use.
Now in its second year, the campaign is a joint initiative between water industry trade body Water UK, and water-saving experts Waterwise.
Last year water companies saw a dramatic increase in household water usage – in some cases 20% above pre-Covid levels– as more people stayed at home during the pandemic.
An increase in hotter, drier summers caused by climate change as well as an increasing population mean there is a heightened risk of the UK experiencing significant water shortages by 2050 – saving water has never been more important.
Peter Jenkins, Water UK Director of Campaigns, said:
“As we enter the heart of the summer holiday season and the UK basks in a heatwave, it’s really important that we all do our bit to save water and protect the environment. The good news is that our research shows that from teenagers to pensioners, most of us really care about conserving water. Through the summer the Water’s Worth Saving campaign will be providing simple hints and tips to help them everyone play their part.”
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