UAE residents can save water and reduce bills

Residents in the UAE can save over 11,000 litres of water each year by making simple changes at home, according to a local expert. Eng. Mohamed Al Hebsi from TAQA Water Solutions highlighted the importance of water conservation, especially as climate change affects weather patterns. He noted that fixing leaks is crucial. A dripping tap can waste enough water to fill a swimming pool annually. To check for leaks, homeowners should monitor their water meter readings after a period of no water use. Al Hebsi shared tips for saving water. Shortening showers by two minutes can save about 38 litres. Turning off the tap while brushing teeth or washing dishes can prevent the waste of up to 15 litres per minute. Community efforts are also important. Residents are encouraged to join clean-up drives and water-saving workshops. Talking about water conservation in neighborhoods or workplaces can increase awareness. Switching to refillable water bottles is another effective measure. Using single-use plastic bottles wastes water in production and harms the environment. Reusable bottles are better for both personal and ecological health. Creative reuse of water is encouraged too. Water from rinsing fruits can be used to water plants. Even cooled water from cooking can provide nutrients for gardens. Instead of using a hose for car washing, which wastes up to 380 litres in ten minutes, Al Hebsi recommends using a bucket and sponge. It’s a fun family activity and significantly reduces water usage. Finally, investing in water-efficient appliances is a smart choice. Low-flow showerheads and dual-flush toilets consume less water without sacrificing performance. Upgrading to energy-efficient dishwashers and washing machines can also save money and protect the environment.