How to use less water?

Amber Minogue (0:03)

How to use less water.

Thanks for asking. You might think that you only use water when you drink, cook, wash or flush the loo. But actually you use much more water than that. According to Water UK, the average person in the UK uses 142 litres per day. That's the amount of water that is needed to produce the food, clothes and other products that you consume. This matters because scientists have calculated that the climate crisis makes drought 20 times more likely, while the UN predicts that demand for fresh water will exceed supply by 40% by 2030 How can you reduce your water footprint? From how you eat, shop and manage your home, there are lots of ways to save water. So here are some tips to try.

First of all, think about what you eat. Animal products have a high water footprint. In fact, agricultural supply chains use 70% of global fresh water resources according to the World Wildlife Fund, especially beef, lamb and cheese. The Water Footprint Network estimates that while a beef burger produced in the Netherlands can take up to 1000 litres of water, a soy burger from the same country only uses approximately 160 litres. So by eating more plant-based food, you can reduce your water footprint by up to 55%.

The fashion industry is one of the most water-intensive industries in the world. To make just one pair of denim jeans, 10,000 litres of water are required. According to UN Climate Change, that's the water used to grow the kilo of cotton needed. In comparison, one person would take 10 years to drink 10,000 litres of water. So by buying less clothes, you can reduce the demand of water and save money. Next, think about your home. Switch to water-efficient appliances and fixtures, such as low-flow shower heads, faucets, toilets, washing machines and dishwashers. You can also install water meters, leak detectors and smart irrigation systems to monitor and control your water use.

Finally, consider all your wasteful habits. For example, can you take shorter showers? Try getting a timer so you realise how long you really take. Turn off the tap when you brush your teeth or shave. If you like cold water, then store a jug of water in the fridge to avoid running the tap. Use a bucket or a hose with a nozzle to wash your car or bike. Collect rainwater or grey water. Grey water is used but clean water. So for example, the water you have used to wash vegetables or even cook with, to water your plants and if it's soapy, like bath water, you could use it to flush your toilet. Only run your dishwasher or washing machine with a full load. And above all, re-use water whenever possible. There you have it.

Now you know how to use less water. In under three minutes, we answer your questions and help you understand the true meaning behind the trends, concepts and acronyms that are making headlines. Listen along and you really will know for sure.

Bababam.