Drive to educate Britons on water use

ALMOST half of the public vastly underestimates the amount of water they use each day, according to a survey.

Water UK and water efficiency experts Waterwise are hoping to educate the public about their water use amid the coronavirus crisis, which has put increased pressure on supplies.

An online survey of 2,190 adults in the UK found some 46 per cent believe their household uses 20 litres of water a day – roughly equivalent to taking a two-minute shower.

Water UK said the average person actually uses 142 litres, meaning an average family of four could be using more than 500 litres each day.

Just under a fifth (17%) of respondents believe they consume between 20 and 39 litres a day while some 15% think they use 40 to 59 litres.

While many were unsure about the amount of water they use, some 68% said they were willing to reduce the amount they use at home to help protect the environment.

Some 63% reported always turning the tap off when they brush their teeth, with just over two-fifths (42%) worried about parts of the UK running out of water in the next 25 years.

Water companies are calling on the Government to use the Environment Bill to introduce water efficiency measures, such as labels on washing machines and dishwashers, to show how much water is being used.

Christine Mcgourty, chief executive of Water UK, said: “The results of this survey illustrate the importance of our Water’s Worth Saving campaign to show the public the value and importance of saving water.

“Whether it’s reusing the water from a paddling pool or taking a shorter shower, we all have a role to play in ensuring we have enough water now and for future generations.”