News resources resilience

It’s Water Saving Week!

Date

15 May 2025


CREDIT
South West Water

It’s Water Saving Week! Small Changes – Big Difference

This week, we are encouraging everyone across Plymouth to take simple steps that help protect our water supply – and save money at the same time.

With climate change bringing hotter, drier summers, our water resources are under more pressure than ever.  By making small changes at home, we can help protect local rivers and wildlife, reduce our impact on the environment and save money on our bills!

Here are some simple tips to help you save water at home:

  1. Take Shorter Showers

Reducing your shower time by just one minute can save up to 10 litres of water. Over a year, this adds up significantly, especially in larger households.

  1. Turn Off the Tap While Brushing

A running tap can waste over 6 litres of water per minute. Turning it off while brushing your teeth can save up to 8,000 litres of water per year.

  1. Fix Leaky Taps and Toilets

A dripping tap can waste up to 5,500 litres of water a year. Fixing leaks promptly prevents unnecessary water loss and can reduce your water bill.

  1. Only Run Full Loads

Only run your dishwasher or washing machine when you have a full load. A full dishwasher uses up to 10x less water than handwashing! Water saving tip: skip the pre-rinse and just scrape food off your plates before loading the dishwasher – modern machines can handle the rest and you’ll save a surprising amount of water.

  1. Use a Bowl for Washing

When washing fruits, vegetables, or dishes by hand, use a bowl instead of running water continuously. You can reuse this water for your garden.

  1. Install a Water Butt

Collecting rainwater using a water butt can save over 1,000 litres of water a year, which can be used for gardening and other outdoor activities.

  1. Water Plants Wisely

Water your garden during the early morning or late evening to minimize evaporation. Using a watering can instead of a hose also helps conserve water.

 

Every drop counts!

More
News

Image shows large conference room with presentations and large audience
energy buildings

Plymouth heat network attracts investor attention

More than 50 heat network development partners, investors and local suppliers attend heat network bidders event.

Row of terraced houses
buildings energy

Families to save in biggest home upgrade plan in British history

Government launches 'Warm Homes Plan' to upgrade the nation's homes and help families cut their energy bills.