Sustainable Water Use

Worcester Students' Union is committed to fostering a sustainable community and providing resources to help students ensure water use is safe, fair, and equitable for future generations.

Why is Water Important?

In the UK, we’re fortunate to have reliable access to clean water, which supports our health, agriculture, ecosystems, industry, and daily activities. However, it’s crucial to recognise that water access is not universal, and many people around the world face significant challenges in securing clean water.

• Nearly 2 billion people lack access to clean water globally.
• 1 in 4 people worldwide experience water scarcity.
• Poor water management can lead to conflict, inequality, and health issues.

Learn more about the global water crisis and its impact.

Benefits of Saving Water

1. Reduces Energy Consumption: Less water usage means less energy needed for heating and treatment.
2. Protects Ecosystems: Saving water reduces pressure on rivers, lakes, and wetlands, helping to preserve biodiversity.
3. Prevents Droughts: Responsible water use ensures that we have enough for future needs, especially in times of drought.
4. Promotes Fair Access: Efficient use helps ensure water remains available for everyone, including those in underserved regions.
5. Lowers Costs: Using less water reduces utility bills, making it more affordable for everyone.
    

Water-Saving Advice

There are many ways university students can save water at home. Here are some simple tips:

1. Fix Leaky Taps and Report Plumbing Issues: Prevent wasted water from drips. Check out our housing guide to learn how to report repairs to your landlord.
2. Turn Off Taps: Don’t leave taps running while brushing teeth, washing dishes, or shaving.
3. Shorten Showers: Reduce shower time to save both water and energy. Find out how to prepare for taking shorter showers.
4. Use Water-Efficient Appliances: Install low-flow showerheads and water-saving toilets. You may be able to get water-saving devices for free.
5. Full Loads Only: Run washing machines and dishwashers with full loads to maximize water efficiency. Learn more about saving water while doing laundry.
6. Collect Rainwater: Use a water butt for watering plants. Find out how to use rainwater and save water in the garden.
7. Use a Bowl for Washing: Wash fruits and vegetables in a bowl, not under running water.
8. Fill the Kettle Wisely: Only boil the water you need to avoid waste.
9. Use a Dishwasher: When full, dishwashers use less water than washing by hand.

Visit Water Wise for more tips on saving water at home.

Get Involved

We have the power to make a difference. Together, we can promote sustainable, fair, and safe water use.

• Stay Updated: Follow the Union's environmental efforts on social media and check our weekly all-student emails. Read about how the University of Worcester is working to conserve water on campus in the sustainability blog, Sus things out.
• Visit the Sustainability Hub: Located at the Thomas Telford Building, St John's Campus. Open daily from 7 am to 10 pm, the hub provides resources and tips for conserving water.

By working together, we can help ensure that water remains a sustainable and equitable resource for all. To find out more about what your Students' Union is doing to support sustainability, email susustainability@worc.ac.uk. If you have an idea for how we can do more to promote water efficiency, submit your suggestion on our Ideas Forum.