CONNECTOR.AE 54 CONNECTOR.AE 55 LIFESTYLE LIFESTYLE In a country that sees very little rainfall and uses energy-intensive desalination plants for its water supply, every drop counts. Yet, according to a study done by Emirates Nature WWF in 2019, the average person in the UAE uses an astonishing 550 litres of water every single day, more than double the global average. What’s more concerning is that up to half of this water is wasted through inefficient fixtures, leaks, or habits we often overlook. In the face of rising populations, climate change and increasing demand for natural resources, conserving water is no longer a choice, it is a responsibility. Fortunately, there’s a lot you can do without making big sacrifices. From checking your plumbing to switching up daily routines, Connector explores how every UAE resident can start saving water right now. Why Saving Water Matters More In The UAE Living in a desert climate means we don’t have an abundance of natural freshwater sources like rivers or lakes to rely on. Instead, more than 90% of the UAE’s water comes from desalination, a costly process that consumes large amounts of energy and has a high environmental footprint. SIMPLEWAYS INWHICH YOU CAN SAVE WATER AT HOME AND HELP PROTECT THE ENVIRONMENT Smart meters, water-efficient appliances, and incentive programmes for sustainable living have also helped drive the message home, but lasting change requires each of us to take action at the individual level. Simple, Smart Ways To Save Water At Home The good news is that you don’t need a complete home overhaul to make a difference. Here are some practical, easy-to-follow tips you can adopt today: 1. Fix Leaks Promptly: Experts estimate that even a slow drip can waste over 15 litres of water in a day. That’s more than 5,000 litres a year! Regularly check taps, pipes, and toilet tanks. If you spot a leak, don’t delay repairs. To check if your toilet tank is leaking, put a few drops of food colouring in the toilet tank. If it seeps into the bowl without flushing, you’ve got a silent leak. So, while turning off the tap might seem like a small act, its impact is magnified here. Conserving water at home means lower energy use and reduced utility bills, reduced carbon emissions, and greater sustainability for future generations. Government entities have been stepping up their efforts in recent years to raise awareness and implement water conservation strategies. Initiatives like Dubai Electricity and Water Authority’s ‘Let’s Make this Summer Green’ campaign and Abu Dhabi’s Tarsheed Programme have educated thousands of residents on the importance of using water wisely, along with other sustainable lifestyle recommendations. Experts estimate that even a slow drip can waste over 15 litres of water in a day. That’s more than 5,000 litres a year! Conserving water at home means lower energy use and reduced utility bills, reduced carbon emissions, and greater sustainability for future generations.
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