Guernsey Water is supporting a national week-long campaign this month aimed at raising awareness of the issues around water usage and providing simple tips for consumers to save water.
The company has signed up to Water Saving Week, which is run by Waterwise and this year is being held from Monday 11 to Friday 15 May.
The campaign is designed to remind everyone to use water wisely and protect it as a precious and finite resource for future generations. There are five themes being promoted which focus on lowering the carbon footprint, helping the local community to thrive, saving water to save wildlife, saving money and keeping the island beautiful.
Margaret McGuinness, Water Quality Risk Manager at Guernsey Water, said: “We experienced a particularly wet autumn and winter so whilst our reservoirs are close to being full, people should still look to reduce their water usage, particularly on our small island. We are not looking to limit the use of water being used, rather it is to remind consumers to think of ways to reduce their amount of wasted water. This year, Water Saving Week provides the link between climate change and water efficiency, something we can all influence in our own small way.”
She continued: “We appreciate during the current times people are spending increasing amount of time at home and also feeling the negative financial impact of Covid19. By taking some simple steps at home to minimise extra water usage, this will help minimise the cost of water bills during these challenging times. A leaky loo for example wastes around 400 litres of clean water a day – the equivalent of having two extra people living in your house, therefore it makes sense for Islanders to minimise wasted water where they can in order to reduce the cost of water in their homes.”
The campaign will share simple ideas and hints on how to save water including:
- Looking for leaky showers or loos around the home
- Washing cars in a water efficient way by using a bucket and sponge as opposed to a garden
hose
- Only using the dishwasher when full
- Not leaving the tap running whilst brushing your teeth
- Leaving grass a third longer than a usual short cut as this helps trap moisture in the top soil
therefore minimising how much water is needed
- Using a watering can instead of a hose. If you have a hose then use one with a trigger nozzle
fitted.
- A water butt can store rainwater collected from your roof which can then be used on the
garden.
The campaign will also target youngsters with an online kids’ pack with fun activities including how to be a ‘leak detective’ and the diary of a water superhero.
