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.
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.
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.
2. Turn Off The Tap: A running tap while brushing your teeth or washing dishes wastes up to 6 litres per minute. Be mindful and turn it off when not in use. Making changes to such small habits can lead to a big impact over time.
3. Use Water-Efficient Fixtures: Install aerators, low-flow shower heads, and dual-flush toilets. These reduce flow rate without compromising performance and can cut water usage significantly.
4. Reuse Grey Water Where Possible: Water from laundry, showers or handwashing, generally referred to as grey water, can be reused for flushing toilets or watering plants, especially if you use eco-friendly soaps.
5. Install Smart Water Meters: Smart water meters can help track water usage in real time, identify leaks early, and give insight into your biggest water consumption areas.
6. Run Full Loads: Whether it’s your washing machine or dishwasher, always wait for a full load before switching it on. This maximises efficiency and reduces the number of cycles and litres you use.
7. Cut Down On Lawn Watering: If you have a garden or outdoor space, opt for drought-resistant native plants or switch to drip irrigation systems. Water early in the morning or after sunset to minimise evaporation. Note that watering during the midday heat leads to more evaporation than absorption.
8. Educate The Whole Household: Water-saving works best when the entire family is involved. Encourage children to become 'water champions' at home by making it a fun and educational journey. Establish reward mechanisms at home to encourage sustainable water usage.
Every Drop Counts
According to Envrionment Agency Abu Dhabi, if every UAE resident reduced their daily water usage by just 20%, the country could save over 200 billion litres of water every year.
Water scarcity may not be visible from the comfort of our homes, but it’s a very real issue in the region. Being aware of how much water we use, and waste, is the first step toward positive change.
Let’s be mindful of how we treat this precious resource. With just a few simple changes to your daily routine, you can play a part in ensuring there’s enough water for everyone today and in the future.
