Water seems plentiful and covers 71% of our blue planet's surface. However, less than 3.5% of this is fresh, salt-free water. Most of our fresh water is frozen in glaciers and icecaps, leaving only 1% as potential drinking water in streams, lakes and underground reserves.
Here in Aotearoa New Zealand about two thirds of our community-piped water supplies are taken from lakes and rivers, and a third from groundwater aquifers.
In developed countries annual water use per person has increased hugely in the past century. This is because of garden and farmland irrigation, larger livestock numbers, industrial growth, water-borne sanitation (flushing toilets) and the water-hungry appliances we have in our homes, from washing machines to spa pools.
There are lots of ways you can save water. Don't leave water saving to others - your contribution will help everybody in the community through the combined effort.
Check out our top tips to ensure you're conserving as much water as possible.
