The Water-Wise Action Plan
UNDERSTAND, REDUCE, RE-USE, HARVEST and CLEAN...the five steps to a water-wise home!
Not only will you save on water use, you will be contributing to Melbourne's future water security and healthier catchments, while also helping clean our bays and waterways.
UNDERSTAND. Understanding where and why you use water is not just an essential first step to becoming water-wise, it really helps you to identify the most useful actions for your home. There are two stages to understanding your water use: the first is to audit or measure what you use and where; the second is to find out where the largest water use generally takes place to help you focus on where your actions will matter most. To learn about your water use, visit:
REDUCE. Take all the water-saving and water-efficiency actions possible to reduce the potable water used in and around your home. Water-saving actions are generally simple and usually free. Water efficiency is about using water fittings and appliances that are designed to be water-wise. Together, water-saving and efficiency actions can save between 25-50% of the water normally used in the home! For advice on how to begin reducing your water use, visit:
RE-USE. Greywater re-use is a great way to make water go much further, and can save 20-40% of all the water normally used in the home. Re-use the greywater from your laundry and bathroom to flush the toilet or feed your garden. For tips on how to re-use greywater, visit:
HARVEST. Rainwater and stormwater can be harvested for use, giving you an alternative water source for baths, showers, toilets and the garden. It can replace between 15 and 25% of your current mains water use. For tips on how to harvest rainwater, visit:
CLEAN. Clean up your act with what you put down the drain. You will be rewarded with healthy rivers and bays, as well as a clean swim or surf! For tips on how to keep your wastewater and stormwater clean, visit: