EA calls for universal water metering by 2050

Climate change and an increasing population are likely to put pressure on the UK’s existing supplies.

With this in mind, the EA has published its Water Resources Strategy for England and Wales which outlines how the agency believes water must be managed by 2050.

As well as water metering it advocates an overhaul of how the water industry is structured with rewards for utilities that can cut consumption amongst their customers.

It also calls for measures to encourage water efficiency in the home, from greener building techniques through to water consumption labelling on appliances such as washing machines and dishwashers similar to existing energy ratings on white goods.

The Environment Agency’s chief executive, Dr Paul Leinster, said: “Water is essential for life and vital to our economy. But climate change and population growth mean there may not be enough water in England and Wales in the future for people and the environment unless we start planning and acting now.

“People and businesses need to use less water and wasting water needs to cost a lot more. The proposals in our new strategy cover actions that need to be taken by water companies, Government, regulators, businesses and the public, and we need a joined up approach to this problem to prevent it becoming a crisis.”

Sam Bond