Lower average rainfall and increased time spent in drought are predicted Climate Change impacts in our region that may have an impact on water availability in our townships.
Using less water also saves money through reduced water bills and can lower electricity and gas bills associated with reduced hot water use and reduce need for pumping requirements.
The Australian Government’s Your Home website is an informative and reliable sources of publicly available information on Environmentally Sustainable Building Design principals, including water use reduction and recycling.
Water Efficiency and WELS ratings
The Water Efficiency Labelling Standard (WELS) is a nationwide scheme that rates the water efficiency of fittings, fixtures, and appliances. All products regulated under the scheme are labelled with their water rating information, allowing homeowners and businesses to make informed purchasing decisions. The WELS website is a great resource for searching for water efficient products.
Water Collection and Use
Rainwater collected and treated in a suitable way can be used for all domestic uses; however, it is generally recommended that mains water supply be used for drinking and cooking where it is available. Greywater can be used to water gardens by connecting a hose to your washing machine and pumping it out to your garden; ensure greywater suitable washing detergent is used. Rainwater collected and reused on-site leads to water bill savings and can also provide water for gardens during periods of imposed water restrictions caused by regional droughts.
Drought Tolerant Gardens
There are many ways to achieve a garden that uses minimal potable water including:
- Plant species that do not need much water, such as Australian natives;
- Use drip irrigation instead of traditional water sprinklers to minimise evaporation and ensure targeted watering;
- Consider wicking beds to minimise water wastage in garden beds; you can buy these or there are many ways to make them yourself;
- Use mulch around plants to reduce moisture loss; and
- Use rainwater harvested on site for garden watering where possible.