RESIDENTS in the West Midlands are among the least likely in the UK to conserve water according to new research.
Following on from World Water Day, the figures reveal that 59 per cent of West Midlands residents take measures to conserve water – compared to a national average of 65 per cent.
Figures also showed that young people are half as likely as their elders to take steps to conserve water – on average just 44 per cent of 18-24 year olds are likely to take action to preserve water.
Commissioned by Nestle Waters, the poll coincided with the celebrations of World Water Day, which took place on Tuesday (March 22).
Organised by the United Nations, the annual event highlights the importance of fresh water globally.
John Etgen, senior vice president at the Project WET foundation, said: “The findings reveal the knowledge gap between the older and younger generations when it comes to water conservation.
“It also highlights the role of education initiatives in ensuring young people know what steps can be taken to conserve our water for generations to come.”
The Project WET programme, designed by over 300 leading educators, is delivered to schools across the world.
It aims to inspire a lifelong respect for water and encourage children to think of creative ways to protect and preserve it.
*SEPARATE BOX*
Top Tips for saving money:
1. Take a shower rather than a bath – Taking a shower uses much less water than filling up a bath. A shower uses approximately a third less water.
2. Choosing when to water the garden – The best time for you to water your garden is early in the morning or later in the evening when it’s cool outside.
3. Dusting off the bucket and sponge – When washing your bike or the car; try using a bucket and sponge instead of a hose. A hose can use 27 litres of water per minute, whereas a bucket and sponge will use only a few litres in total.
4. Put it in the bin – Don’t throw litter into rivers, lakes or oceans. Help clean up any litter you see on beaches or in rivers and lakes, make sure it is safe to collect the litter and put it in a nearby dustbin.
