Simple ways for your family to save water, energy and the planet

Daily Record

a day ago

The amount of water we use each and every day isn't something we often stop to consider.
But the reality is that we use more than we realise, and crucially, this tends to be more than we actually need.
From brushing our teeth in the morning to making that all-important first cup of tea of the day, or from running a shower to washing the family car, the average person in Scotland will have used almost 180 litres of water by the end of today - enough to fill a whole bathtub.
With Scotland currently experiencing higher levels of water scarcity, due to the driest start to the year in more than six decades, it's more important than ever for us all to use water responsibly, keeping a close eye on the amount we use each day.
Sean Batty, meteorologist and TV presenter for STV Weather, commented on the recent weather: "Springs in the UK are generally becoming wetter - but when we experience a drier-than-usual spring, like this one, those higher temperatures can actually make the situation worse.
"One striking aspect of this spring has been the weather pattern reversal between the UK and the Mediterranean. Spain has seen unusually wet conditions, with Malaga on the Costa del Sol recording over 250mm of rain since March 1, whereas some parts of East Lothian have had just 25mm."
And though we've seen some rain lately, the problem is far from over, as Sean emphasised: "Although the recent dry streak has finally broken, in parts of eastern Scotland, the rainfall deficit dates back to June last year, with each month since then bringing either average or below-average rainfall.
"River levels are exceptionally low in many areas, which will be concerning for many as we head into the summer months, and while reservoirs have more resilience thanks to their large capacity, sustained dry periods and increased water demand could still create problems if we don't watch our water usage closely."
How you can help conserve water
The good news is that there are lots of simple switches that can be made, making a huge difference in reducing the amount of water we consume - not only better for the planet, but our pockets too.
According to a recent study by Home Energy Scotland*, taking just two minutes off your shower could save you at least £50 on your annual energy bill.
Reducing your dishwasher use by one cycle per week can save up to 480 litres of water and around £14 per year - and ensuring your washing machine is full and running it at 30 degrees, rather than 40, can cut your water and energy consumption by a huge 57 per cent.
Studies have shown that a family of four typically flushes the loo more than 10,000 times every year - equating to about 60,000 litres of clear, fresh water down the drain - so, maybe we don't need to flush every time.
Another great way to help conserve Scotland's water supply, widely considered 'world-class' by Scottish residents, is by using a water butt at home.
A small Scottish roof collects more than 45,000 litres of water each year, and a large roof can collect more than 90,000 litres per year - which is plenty to help your garden grow.
Using a watering can in the garden rather than a hosepipe, a sponge for washing your car, and only boiling the water you actually need when you use the kettle are instant ways to start saving.
Turning the tap off whilst brushing your teeth and fixing dripping taps and leaky loos are other easy wins.
There are many things we can do to save water all year round, which is good for both the planet and your pocket.