DID YOU KNOW.... Australia is one of the world's largest consumers of water?!
What can you do now
- Take shorter showers. A shower uses 10-20 litres of water every minute.
- Use a broom to sweep and clean outdoor surfaces rather than the hose.
- Turn off the tap when you brush your teeth.
- Comply with local water restrictions, when in effect.
- Do not operate the dishwasher and washing machine until you have a full load or make sure you adjust the load setting to suit your washing requirements.
- Wash fruit and vegetables and rinse dishes in a plugged sink or a bowl instead of running under water.
- Don't over water your lawn - train it to use less water by encouraging the roots to grow deeper. Also water during the morning and evenings to minimise evaporation
What can you do in the future
- Install water saving devices like AAA-rated showerheads, dual flush toilets, tap aerators and flow controllers.
- Look at the Water Efficiency Labelling Standard (WELS) star-rating when buying new appliances such as washing machines or dishwashers. The more stars, the more water efficient the machine.
- Check that pipes and taps are in good order. Promptly fix or report any leaks or drips - a leaking tap can waste 200 litres of water a day.
- Install a rainwater tank in your backyard to use for washing the car and watering the garden.
- Explore installing a water efficient dripper system for irrigating.
- Choose native plants and grasses that require less water than other non-native species.
- Mulch your garden to prevent water loss.