England is currently facing a dire water emergency, as reservoirs are at their lowest levels in more than 10 years. As of today, the average capacity of these reservoirs is only 67.7%. This alarming situation has raised concerns about the sustainability of the country’s water supply, particularly as England’s population is expected to rise significantly in the coming years.
The UK’s water system is facing a major backlash. Public opinion has led to a lot of investment in the wrong areas, with many people believing that insufficient care has been taken over investment in vital infrastructure. Water companies have acknowledged that around 20% of treated water is lost to leaks, highlighting inefficiencies that exacerbate the current crisis. In answer, these firms have committed to eliminating leakages by 50% by the year 2050. Questions remain about whether these big commitments will address the immediate crisis that we are in.
Geologically and climatically, England appears to have water fortune enough to share. Together, climate change and population growth are putting unprecedented pressure on the country’s water resources. That would be the average 168-litre person in the UK average, which equates to about 150 litres of water per person, per day. This number is close to double what Americans use in France and Germany. This unsustainable rate of overconsumption has driven the increasing water scarcity crisis.
With no sign of an end to dry weather, the UK government has already declared a “nationally significant” water shortage in England. If drought persists, the whole nation may soon find itself in danger of running out of water. Though England tends to experience droughts every two years, sustained periods of dryness can have devastating effects on water access. The Lake District collects a frankly glorious 2,000mm of rainfall a year. At the same time, some regions of the south-east get as little as 700mm.
In an attempt to avoid the coming disaster, nine new reservoirs are scheduled to break ground before 2050. These projects meet the challenge of growing water needs. In addition, they address the stressors created by a booming population and increasing climate impacts. As experts and advocates caution, if you don’t act now the effects will be catastrophic.
“Drought in England is no longer a warning. It is a clear signal that climate collapse is unravelling our water, food and natural systems right now.” – Sir David King
The economic toll of water scarcity could reach £8.5 billion during the current parliamentary term, according to research from think tank Public First. It’s understandable to wonder, especially with nearly half of Europe currently in extreme drought. This dire reality is contributing to the intensity of wildfires and posing major threats to agriculture throughout the entire continent.
Now local authorities and environmental advocates are calling on people, large and small, to invest in conservation. Helen Wakeham stated, “We are calling on everyone to play their part and help reduce the pressure on our water environment.” She insisted that water companies get on top of fixing leaks in the first place and practice what they preach on water conservation.
Actionable and practical water solutions for reducing individual water consumption have been suggested. Even small steps—like cutting showers to one minute less a day—can make a big impact on the amount of water used. Wakeham went on to stress the need for capturing rainwater to use for non-potable uses like washing cars and watering gardens.
“Water companies must now take action to follow their drought plans – I will hold them to account if they delay,” said Emma Hardy, underscoring the need for immediate implementation of measures designed to combat the crisis.
The increasing risk of water shortages in England is emblematic of a wider pitfall brought on by climate change and shoddy environmental stewardship. Communities have been forced to shoulder the burden of protecting valuable natural resources. An equitable transition of how we value and manage our water resources is imperative to rise to meet this challenge.
“This crisis demands a fundamental shift that places real value on our planet and environment, invests in nature, restores water cycles and transforms how we use every drop,” emphasizes an unidentified environmental advocate.