Saving water

In 1996/97 water leakage in the United Kingdom was 4528Ml/d (million litres per day) the new targets for 1999-2000 will reduce leakage to 3337Ml/d. The reduction in leakage to be achieved over the three years represents enough water to: meet the needs of all Yorkshire Water customers; or provide 14 million baths each day; or fill Lake Windermere three times a day.

Hot summer days bring increases in energy demand. Water demand also shoots up on hot summer days, often when water is scarce. The following guidelines help to save water and energy: (a) Use dishwashers and washing machines for full loads only. Instead of hot water, consider using cold or warm for laundry. (b) Do not use the heat drying option on your dishwasher, and consider using a clothesline instead of the dryer. This will keep your house cooler as well. (c) Turn the water off when you brush your teeth - keeping the faucet on can waste up to 15 gallons of water every time you brush. (d) Rather than letting the water run, fill the basin when you shave, or when you wash dishes. (e) Water your lawn early in the morning when it is cooler so less water evaporates.

Eating less meat saves water. It takes over 80,000 litres of water to produce 1 kg of beef.