Waterwise revolution

22/12/2005

Be wise using water in 2006 is the New Year’s resolution from Essex & Suffolk Water.

Gary Bond, a waterwise customer from Billericay, took part in a water company survey to find out how customers use water to help it plan for the future.

As an incentive, the 4,500 who took part in the survey were entered into a free prize draw and Gary, a green-fingered gardener, won £250 D-I-Y vouchers and a visit from a Royal Horticultural Society advisor to give practical tips on gardening without wasting water.

Jenny Abel, one of Essex & Suffolk Water’s demand analysts, said:  “Water is a precious resource and Essex & Suffolk Water is continually monitoring and planning to ensure there will be sufficient water supplies for the future.  Everyone should and can play a part in conserving this precious resource in all seasons – a good resolution for 2006!”

WATER-WISE TIPS FOR THE HOME AND GARDEN FOR 2006

In the Home
Have a shower rather than a bath – you will save up to 50 litres of water.
A save-a-flush installed in a toilet cistern will save one litre of water every time you flush the toilet.
A dripping tap can waste up to 26 litres of water in 24 hours – that is enough water for a shower!
Turn the tap off while you brush your teeth – you will save up to 10 litres of water a day.
Clean vegetables in a bowl rather than under a running tap over the festive season – you will save around 23 litres of water a day.
During the festive season there will be lots of dishes and clothes to wash!  Ensure washing machines and dishwashers are full before use – dishwashers use around 35 litres of water per cycle and washing machines use around 80 litres of water per cycle.

In the Garden
Water plants in the evening to retain moisture in the soil and aim water at the base of the plant – there is no need to water leaves.
Create a depression in the ground around plants to prevent water running away.  It is best to give plants a good soaking rather than watering little and often.
Invest in a waterbutt and capture rainwater for use in a dry period.  Rainwater is very good for plants. 
A hosegun fitted to your hosepipe allows you to turn water on and off easily as you move around the garden.

For further information contact Cara Hall on 0191 301 6720.