Could your business be a water-saving hero this Water Saving Week?

This spring, headlines left right and centre have warned of a looming water scarcity crisis: “England faces drought this summer as reservoir water levels dwindle” (The Guardian, 6 May 2025) and “Take action now’: Scotland facing summer drought amid water scarcity risk” (STV News, 4 April 2025). Whilst we welcome the awareness this media attention brings to the need for us all to use water wisely across the UK, we know that an increased effort during dry weather alone isn’t enough to trigger the significant changes in behaviour we need to see to make a real difference. Environment Agency estimates that we will need an additional 5 billion litres of water a day by 2050 to meet the demands of a growing population are widely reported – but what is less well understood is that without action now, there is a 1 in 4 chance that households and businesses will experience water supply cuts over the next 30 years.

Nothing happens without water, so how can we protect this precious resource? 12-15 May 2025 is Water Saving Week – a campaign by water efficiency experts Waterwise – encouraging individuals, communities and businesses to think about how they can use water wisely.

Why save water?

Reducing water consumption in the workplace offers numerous benefits. As well as cost savings, it helps businesses comply with current and future environmental legislation, reduce their carbon footprint, improve environmental performance, and generate positive PR.

Most organisations have not considered the business risk of running out of water; but for almost every business, a day without water would significantly impact productivity and business continuity. The Environment Act 2021 sets statutory demand targets for business water use reduction in England – with a target of 9% reduction in consumption by 2038 – and achieving this isn’t only good for the planet, but good for business too.

• In England and Wales, business water bills are set to increase by an average of 36% over the next five years. Reducing water use will not only lower water bills, but also help to reduce energy costs associated with heating water. Waterwise estimates that a 20% reduction in water use could save a business up to 10% on its energy bills.
• Reducing water consumption can also help to reduce the environmental impact of an organisation. Not only will using less water help to preserve biodiversity by minimising abstraction from groundwater aquifers, for example, but also reduce the carbon emissions caused by water treatment, distribution and heating. According to the Carbon Trust website, every cubic metre of water saved can save up to 0.34kg of carbon dioxide emissions.
• Saving water can also enhance an organisation’s reputation, as it demonstrates a commitment to environmental sustainability to customers, stakeholders and regulators. Research from Waterwise and the BSI found that 73% of people globally would change their consumer habits to support organisations acting on water efficiency.

5 steps to saving water at work

1. Measure and monitor: Measuring, monitoring and identifying steps to reduce water use is vital in helping to understand the water footprint of your business. Using a simple calculator like Waterwise’s Water Impact Widget can provide ideas of where savings of both water and money could be achieved; or conducting a water audit, which assesses water use and wastage within an organisation, provides the most comprehensive picture of water use, costs, and potential savings to enable you to set targets for reduction. If you’re passionate about demonstrating your commitment to water efficiency, the Waterwise Checkmark provides recognition for your organisation in this space.
2. Fix leaks: Leaks are a major source of wasted water and can cost a business a significant amount of money. It is estimated that 5-8% of toilets are leaking at any one time, often silently from the cistern into the bowl. This can waste 215 – 400 litres of clean drinking water per toilet every day! Ensure your organisation has a maintenance schedule that includes regularly checking pipes, taps, toilets, showers, appliances and equipment for leaks to help minimise waste. Technology such as leak detection devices or smart water meters can also check for continuous flow. Take part in Waterwise’s Leaky Loos campaign for a simple way to check your toilets for leaks!
3. Install water-efficient devices: Fitting equipment such as tap aerators, dual flush toilets, and waterless urinals can help reduce the flow of water without compromising on performance or comfort. Larger investments, such as rainwater harvesting or greywater recycling systems can lead to significant reductions in water use, as well as having a more positive impact on the environment.
4. Engage staff: Educating colleagues about why and how to save water and report leaks or problems is vital to success. Waterwise offer online and in-person water efficiency training for staff, which coupled with behavioural nudges such as posters, stickers and newsletters promoting water-saving messages and goals can make a real difference in a workplace setting.
5. Speak to your retailer: To become a more water-efficient business, a good place to start is with your water retailer. Call your retailer and ask them what they can offer you to help save water and money. All businesses in England and Scotland can switch water retailer and there are lots of deals and water-saving incentives available. Read Waterwise’s guide to switching retail provider for more information.

---