UK companies use a staggering 1,300 million m3 of water every year: three times more than the quantity needed. Over the last decade, water demand has risen to unprecedented levels.
These factors - demand and wastage - are contributing to real concern about the sustainability of water use in the UK, and to fears of a 'desert state'.
UK companies use the majority of our water, and can play a major part in reducing wastage. According to ONS, 55% of publicly supplied water is used by industry and commerce.
What's the problem?
1. Over the last decade, demand for water has reached unprecedented levels. However, many firms still waste money - as well as water - through poor water management.
2. A dripping tap alone can waste 26 litres of water a day, or £750 a year. Something as seemingly harmless as a hose left running to drain all day can cost up to £46 500 annually.
3. In 1997/8, 1.8 million m3 of water was lost through leakage. Though water companies make headlines when it comes to identifying leaks in the public water supply, at least 1/4 of leaks are at the customer end. Businesses have a responsibility to mend their leaks.
So, we are literally throwing profit and a vital, precious resource down the drain needlessly, and may be contributing to a long-term problem of water availability in Britain. Conversely, companies that do address water use can gain considerable financial benefits.
Getting wiser about water | Next =>
Benefits to business | Steps to stop water waste | In industrial firms