| 16 August 2007: Government plans to increase water metering are a good start |
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‘We wholeheartedly support the government’s announcement, which means that more and more people will be paying for the water they use – rather than paying a fixed amount according to their house value over thirty years ago, as two thirds of us do’, says Nicci Russell, Waterwise’s Head of Policy. ‘Metering, when combined with new tariff structures, water conservation messages and incentives for water efficiency can lead to big long-term reductions in water wastage. ‘In the face of climate change and the need to build more and more homes for us to live in, we all need to waste less water, through simple measures like turning the tap off when we brush our teeth, taking shorter showers rather than baths, and only using the washing machine when it’s full. Paying for what we use certainly helps us to appreciate the true cost of water.’ Waterwise would like to see full metering as soon as possible across the whole of the UK. The UK is one of the only developed countries in the world without full metering, with only around 30% of properties on a water meter. Our closest neighbours, Belgium, Germany and The Netherlands have 100% metering. Full metering helps everyone to understand the true value of water and treat it in the same way we do gas or electricity. While most families will benefit from being on a water meter, Waterwise believes it is essential that large, low-income families are protected. Metering is the fairest way of paying for water and allows for the introduction of tariffs to protect vulnerable customers. If we do not take action now, climate change, population shifts and behaviour mean the UK will face increased water stress in the future.
• For more information visit http://www.defra.gov.uk/news/latest/2007/water-0816.htm Contacts: |