The ongoing warm weather has prompted NI Water to call upon the public to make urgent water savings as temperatures are expected to reach highs of 24C. Water Saving Week, running from May 12 to 16, serves as a timely reminder to practice mindful water usage as echoed by NI Water’s education officer, Anna Killen.

Embracing New Habits

Anna highlights the necessity of adopting new habits to conserve water, stating, “It’s important we all play our part in protecting future water supplies that may come under pressure due to changing climate and population growth.”

Practical Water-Saving Tips

NI Water has shared ten water-saving tips to help the public cut usage as the warm spell continues:

  1. Right Amount in the Kettle: Only boil the water you need to avoid unnecessary energy usage.
  2. Turn Off the Tap: Save six liters per minute by turning off the tap while brushing your teeth.
  3. Quick Showers: Limit showers to four minutes to conserve water.
  4. Reuse Vegetable Washing Water: Capture this water for plant watering.
  5. Full Laundry Loads: Always run full loads in the washing machine to maximize water usage.
  6. Cool Your Water: Keep a jug of water in the fridge instead of running the tap cold.
  7. Fix Leaking Taps: A single drip can waste more than 60 liters a week.
  8. Water Cans Over Hoses: Use watering cans; a hose consumes 500 liters per hour.
  9. Rainwater Harvesting: Utilize a water butt for outdoor water needs.
  10. Online Water Audit: Use the Get Water Fit app to track and challenge your water usage.

Rising Temperatures Alert

According to Met Office Meteorologist Becky Mitchell, the mercury will reach potentially record-breaking levels this week, supporting the urgent need for water saving measures.

Embracing Environmental Responsibility

Being mindful of our water consumption not only aids in environmental preservation but also results in cost savings. As Anna/ encourages, even small changes can make a significant impact: “It’s really easy to save water and there are some simple things we can all do that can make a huge difference.”

Stay mindful and proactive as NI rides out this warm weather wave, ensuring future water security in the face of climate change and burgeoning populations.

According to Belfast Telegraph, it’s crucial to act now to secure our water future.