RENFREWSHIRE residents are being asked to use water more efficiently in and around their homes during the coronavirus crisis.

The plea has been issued by Scottish Water at a time when the lockdown means many local people are working from home.

To mark UK Water Saving Week, which runs until May 15, families are being asked to consider how they use water in their homes and gardens.

It is estimated that the average person in Renfrewshire uses about 165 litres of water every day but that soared to almost 200 litres last month as a result of a change in lifestyle during the Covid-19 restrictions.

While it is essential that people continue to follow government advice regarding hand-washing, Scottish Water is reminding them to use supplies wisely.

Peter Farrer, Scottish Water’s chief operating officer, told The Gazette: “There are lots of ways that we can safely save water in and around the home and there are many benefits of doing so.

“About one-fifth of the average household heating bill is spent on heating water. By taking simple steps like turning the tap off when brushing your teeth and taking shorter showers, a family of four can save over £100 in reduced energy bills each year.

“As well as reducing CO2 emissions and saving money, saving water can also help protect our water supplies and improve the environment.

“With climate change, rainfall patterns are set to become less reliable and the risk of prolonged dry spells is increasing, therefore it is becoming increasingly important that we treat water as a precious natural resource by reducing what we waste.

“Following tips like collecting rainwater to water plants and using a bucket and sponge rather than a hose to wash the car can help reduce water wastage and keep more water in our natural environment, all while helping to reduce our carbon footprint."

For more information, visit www.scottishwater.co.uk/savewater.

Read all the latest from Renfrewshire and beyond

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