Scottish customers call for action on the water impacts of the climate crisis

Scottish consumers are alarmed by the impact of climate change on Scotland’s water resources, and eager for action to tackle the problem.

That was the overriding conclusion from in-depth research by Ipsos commissioned by customer watchdog Consumer Scotland. Across five online workshops in October-November 2023, 41 individuals focused on the three themes of water use and resources; sustainable management of rainwater; and wastewater services; and explored the question: How should we deal with the impacts that climate change is having – and will have – on water in Scotland?

The participants wanted action, and on the back of the findings, Consumer Scotland made among the following recommendations: 

• The Scottish Government should work with Scottish Water and the wider sector on national strategies to improve future water resources management and water efficiency.

• The Scottish Government should take a lead role, with support from Scottish Water, SEPA, and local authorities, to develop legislation to promote environmental solutions that help alleviate flooding, including incentives to ensure the uptake of sustainable drainage solutions in new housing projects.

• There should be targeted water sector information campaigns reinforcing the importance of consumers using water resources sustainably and taking responsibility for reducing strain on the sewerage system – including avoiding the use of ‘flushable’ wipes.

• Any new legislation should avoid detriment to low income consumers and those in vulnerable circumstances.

Consumer Scotland’s head of water, Gail Walker, said: “Over the course of the research, participants developed their understanding of the challenges and reached broad agreement that Scotland’s water sector needed to be ambitious in its approaches to tackling climate change impacts. There was a recognition that individual consumers will have a key role to play whether through reducing personal water consumption or avoiding the disposal of inappropriate items down sinks or toilets.

“There was also a clear appetite for more information and a desire to see behavioural change supported by wider, systemic action.

“There is now a need for more targeted information and clear leadership from the Scottish Government and Scottish Water to ensure consumers understand how they can play their full part in tackling climate change.”