Reducing Water Wastage in the UK

Every business has different water needs from a small office based business to a large manufacturing plant, but almost all could benefit from cutting water consumption. Cutting water costs is one of the easiest ways to increase profits and Envirowise estimates that adopting a systematic approach to reducing water use could cut your water use by up to 30%.

In addition, reducing water consumption can help your business comply with current and future environmental legislation, reduce its carbon footprint, improve your company’s environmental performance and benefit from positive PR.

Water using fittings in commercial buildings and multi-occupancy premises often experience higher frequency use than in dwellings, which means that payback times following investment can be excellent. Investment in water recycling schemes is also more viable in business settings than domestic settings.

In commercial situations, major cost savings can be gained through installation of:
• urinal controls or waterless urinals
• efficient flush toilets
• automatic or sensor taps

In addition to cost-savings from decreased water and energy bills, businesses investing in technologies and products that encourage sustainable water use may be eligible for tax savings though Enhanced Capital Allowance (ECA). The ECA website details the scheme and the Water Technology List.

Organisations with a remit to advise businesses and industry on water savings, including water-using industrial processes:
• Envirowise
• NISP

Educate your employees on the importance and practices of water efficiency

Know where your supply pipes run and where the shut off valves are

Check your metres at night or when no water is being used to monitor leakage

Make sure your pipes are protected against cold weather as leakage can increase after a burst due to frost

Use water efficient appliances in canteens or office kitchens

Determine where your wasted water is going and if or how you can recycle it in other areas of your business

Where possible, use a water butt to harvest rainwater for use in your business

Assess water using equipment to make sure there is no over filling
Set water usage targets

Install water efficient devices in bathrooms and canteens such as controlled or waterless urinals and automatic or spray taps
Look at our list of Water Saving Devices to fit into your office where applicable

Your water supplier may offer water audits to see how efficient your business’s water usage is. Some may even offer a personalised water management package to get the best water efficiency plan for your business. Contact your water company for more details.