Water is one of our most precious resources. Yet in the UK, with our relentless rain and flowing rivers, we are still often at risk of water shortages and scarcity. With the Environment Agency warning that parts of the UK could experience severe water shortages in the next 15-20 years, the need for water conservation has never been more urgent. This blog will explore why saving water matters now, and how small changes we make in both personal and business behaviours can collectively make a big and lasting impact.
Despite recording one of the wettest 18 months in recent history, the UK still faces an impending water crisis. Climate change, population growth, an increase in new home building, and pollution are placing immense pressure on our water resources. Globally, water scarcity is ranked among the top five environmental risks. This is why initiatives like Waterwise’s Water Night are essential for raising awareness of the problem and encouraging individuals to save water.
This winter, Showerkap and Waterwise are inviting everyone to make one small, meaningful change by joining The Very Last Drop movement. Together, we can reduce water waste, protect the UK’s water supply, and set the tone for a more sustainable future. It is a call to action for us all. It’s a pledge that says we’re serious about changing our relationship with water, one small action at a time. The message is simple: by working together, individual actions can create change that leads to powerful and effective water savings across the UK.
The festive season is a time when water usage spikes. From extra cooking and cleaning to longer showers on chilly mornings, the demands on our water supply increase significantly during Christmas and New Year.
Taking action doesn’t have to mean making big changes; just one small commitment can make a difference. We ask you to choose one pledge this winter to help conserve water.
Each pledge comes with a downloadable social asset so you can share your commitment and inspire others to join in. Posting your pledge not only shows your support for water conservation but it also helps spread awareness, creating a ripple effect of positive change. We have three pledge posts available to download:
- Only fill the kettle with what you need
- Keep your shower under 4 minutes
- Fill the dishwasher completely before putting it on
Although governments, regulators and industries bear much of the responsibility for conserving water resources, individual action is vital, too. Mindful water use at home or work can make a remarkable difference, today and over time, as culture and behaviour changes. For instance, a typical 10-minute shower uses approximately 120 litres of fresh water. This level of consumption is unsustainable, especially given that 2 billion people worldwide currently lack access to safe drinking water[i].
So, what can we do in the UK? Adopting sustainable water habits can play a crucial role in protecting this valuable resource. By fostering a culture that values every drop, we can create a more water-conscious society and help safeguard our future.
In short, we are living beyond our means when it comes to water use. Fortunately, water-saving technology is on the rise, with UK-based innovations leading the way in both commercial and domestic settings. These solutions allow us to better understand and optimise our water use, offering practical solutions for everyone.
In hotels, remote smart systems have been created to monitor and manage overall usage and adjust shower flow rates, which could help conserve billions of litres each year. Many hotels have also installed dual-flush toilets, fewer towel changes and low-flow taps to reduce water waste without compromising guest comfort. In homes, similar technologies, such as smart leak detectors, are becoming increasingly accessible.
One particularly innovative example is the use of rainwater harvesting systems in both commercial and residential buildings. These systems collect rainwater, which can then be used for flushing toilets or watering gardens, significantly reducing demand on the mains water supply. Greywater recycling systems, which reuse water from sinks and showers, are also gaining popularity.
These technologies not only contribute to water conservation but also support sustainability goals like the UN’s Sustainable Development Goal 6 – “to ensure availability and sustainable management of water and sanitation for all.” By investing in these systems, businesses can make a meaningful contribution to water stewardship.
Saving water doesn’t mean drastic lifestyle changes. On the
Inspiring change for future generations
These small actions, when practised consistently, can lead to substantial water savings. And by pledging support for The Very Last Drop, you’re joining a community of water-conscious individuals committed to safeguarding the UK’s water supply.
The movement isn’t just about individual responsibility; it’s about fostering a sense of community and collective effort. When we commit to saving water in our homes and workplaces, we encourage others to do the same. By making a pledge, individuals and organisations can share their achievements, learn from each other, and amplify their impact.
Beyond personal actions, the pledge also promotes transparency and accountability. By tracking water savings and sharing results, we can build a stronger, more water-conscious community and motivate others to join us.
The threat of water scarcity in the UK is real, but it is not inevitable. Through individual actions, technological innovations, and a shared commitment to water stewardship, we can make a difference. By saving water right now, we protect our environment, reduce energy consumption, and help ensure that future generations can enjoy the resources we have today.
Now is the time to act. Join Showerkap and Waterwise in supporting The Very Last Drop movement. Choose your pledge, take simple actions to save water in your daily life, share your experiences and tips and encourage others to do the same. Together, we can create change and secure a sustainable water future for us all.
– By Steve Harding, CEO Showerkap
