As climate change intensifies, every action to save water matters. Schools have a unique opportunity to lead in water conservation, not only by reducing their environmental impact but by teaching students sustainable habits for the future.
Water conservation is just one of many interventions that Climate Action Advisors from Let’s Go Zero like myself advise schools on, but for World Water Day I’m giving you 10 innovative strategies that can help your school minimise water usage while promoting eco-friendly practices.
1. Smart Fixtures: Small Changes, Big Impact
Simple upgrades, like water-efficient taps and showers, can cut water consumption by 25-30%. For example, replacing regular taps with water-saving models in a school of 1,000 people can save around 1.37 million litres of water per year. In fact, a life-cycle assessment comparing ordinary and water-saving taps found that switching to water-saving fixtures could reduce water usage by 26.2% and energy consumption by 13.6%*. These changes are not only beneficial for the environment but also serve as an educational tool, showing students how small efforts can lead to significant environmental benefits.
Pro Tip: Challenge students to calculate water savings as part of a maths or science project!
2. Embrace the Rain: Nature’s Free Resource
Rainwater harvesting is a simple way to reduce reliance on treated water. Schools can collect rainwater in water butts for gardening or outdoor cleaning. Larger systems can supply water for flushing toilets, significantly cutting consumption. For instance, schools within the Learning Partnership in Cheshire and Staffordshire with use rainwater for food gardens, providing an example of sustainability in action.
Hold a “Design a Water Butt” competition combining art and science.
3. Leak Detectives: every drop counts
Leaks, even tiny ones, can waste vast amounts of water. Schools can create a “Leak Detective Squad” of students to regularly check for leaks in pipes, taps, toilets, and irrigation systems. This proactive approach not only saves water but also teaches students practical problem-solving skills.
At Dalmain Primary in London, a routine check uncovered they were being double-charged for water, highlighting the importance of regular monitoring.
4. Flush with Savings: Install dual or half-flush toilets
Toilets account for a significant portion of water usage. Installing dual-flush or half-flush toilets can reduce water consumption by up to 67%. A more affordable alternative is placing water displacement devices in cisterns, which can save up to 3 litres per flush. Down High School in Northern Ireland has done exactly this saving money and resources.
Pro Tip: Students can be involved in the process, learning about displacement and water conservation in the process.
5. Water-Wise Landscaping: Beauty Meets Efficiency
Transform school grounds by planting drought-tolerant native species that need minimal watering – and using rainwater capture methods to avoid plants or planters drying out. The Royal Horticultural Society highlights that native plants can drastically cut water usage. Biodiverse ecosystems help regulate water cycles, reducing the risk of drought and flood damage as well as creating beautiful spaces for all to enjoy.
Eco-Challenge: Organise a ‘Native Plant Day’ where students research and plant local species and devise systems for rainwater capture.
6. Ditch the Plastic: Bring Back Refill Stations
Encourage students and staff to switch to reusable water bottles by installing refill stations throughout the school. According to Refill UK, each reusable bottle can save up to 156 single-use plastic bottles annually. This reduces plastic waste and encourages water conservation.
Challenge: Host a “Decorate Your Own Reusable Bottle” competition to inspire participation.
7. Sustainable Drainage: Working with Nature
Sustainable Drainage Systems (SuDS) manage surface water run-off, reduce flooding, and improve water quality. Key components include permeable pavements, rain gardens, green roofs, and swales that allow water to naturally filter and absorb. These systems can significantly reduce a school’s water footprint while enhancing its aesthetic appeal.
Project Idea: Create a model of a SuDS system for a cross-curricular project that includes science, geography, and design technology.
8. Smart Irrigation: Watering with Wisdom
For schools with large grounds, smart irrigation systems adjust watering schedules based on real-time weather and soil moisture. Little Chalfont Primary in Amersham uses a drip irrigation system that delivers water directly to plant roots, reducing waste while maintaining vibrant landscapes. These systems can reduce water usage by up to 50%.
Fun Fact: Some smart irrigation systems can cut outdoor water use by half.
9. Student-Led Conservation: Empowering the Next Generation
Involve students in hands-on water conservation projects like school-wide water audits or designing rainwater harvesting systems. At St Matthews Primary in Luton, students raised awareness of global water issues by creating educational posters. These projects not only provide practical learning experiences but also inspire students to take leadership in sustainability.
Idea Spark: Start a “Water Saving Innovators” club where students brainstorm and implement their own ideas.
10. Tap into free resources: conservation on a budget
Many water companies offer free or discounted water-saving devices, such as water butts or water- saving devices for toilets. Schools may also qualify for free water surveys to identify areas for improvement. Researching these opportunities can help schools conserve water without incurring additional costs.
Action Step: Assign a team to investigate free water-saving resources available in your area.
Final Thoughts
Each of these strategies offers an opportunity for schools to reduce their water consumption and contribute to climate change mitigation. Whether you implement one idea or several, every action helps. According to the Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs, if everyone reduced their water use by just 1 litre per day, it would save 360 million litres annually—enough to supply 900,000 homes for one day.
By adopting water-saving measures, schools can not only cut costs but also teach the next generation the importance of sustainability. Ready to make a splash? Start small and build momentum—your school can make a lasting impact.
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