The Observer reports that many parts of the country face crippling water shortages in the near future unless immediate action is taken to protect precious supplies, according to the Environment Agency. The Agency warns in its Water Resources Strategy document that many rivers, particularly those in south-east England, could be reduced to a trickle in summer by the middle of the century.
It recommends measures including compulsory water meters in every home to help reduce the nation's water consumption. Ultimately, Britain should aim to cut each citizen's average daily use of water from 148 litres, one of the highest figures in Europe, to less than 130 litres.
Meteorologists say climate change will lead to more frequent bouts of heavy downpours and heavy flooding in Britain over the next four decades. However, the overall effect will be to reduce the amount of water available in rivers in England and Wales.
You can help reduce consumption in your own home by:
We have more useful ideas for saving water in the home and garden.
