Survey finds knowledge is there but action is lacking on the environmental impacts of water use

People are very aware that their water use behaviours can affect the environment, but many do little about it, a new survey from CCW found.

The annual Water awareness survey exposed that 91% of people said they were aware that personal water use, and what is disposed of down toilets or rinsed down the sink, have an effect on the environment.

However, 62% said they had not done anything to use less water in the last six months, and 15% said they had flushed inappropriate items down the toilet.

CCW said it aimed to achieve a measurable reduction in sewer misuse and water consumption by 2030. “The challenge for the sector is to go beyond awareness-raising and create a call to action that will resonate strongly with consumers.”

The watchdog explained the survey would help target efforts and resources in a way that is most likely to resonate with people and help them reduce their impact on the environment, and that subsequent surveys would track any changes over time.