This World Water Day, lead the change you want to see in the world

Today water covers 70% of our planet, and it is easy to think that it will always be plentiful. However, freshwater—the water we drink, wash in, and irrigate our crops with—is incredibly rare. In fact, only 3% of the world’s water is freshwater, and two-thirds of that is tucked away in frozen glaciers or otherwise unavailable to us. This, combined with changing weather patterns and climate change, means that around 1.1 billion people worldwide lack access to water, and a total of 2.7 billion find water scarce for at least one month of the year.

At the current rate of consumption, this situation will only get worse. In fact, by 2025, two-thirds of the world’s population may face water shortages, and ecosystems around the world will suffer even more.

But the good news is there are actions we can take, large and small, to make a difference – as the UN has said, ‘It is all about playing your part by doing what you can.’

So, with that in mind, here is the Weeva guide to World Water Day.

As travel properties, there are a range of things you can do to reduce unnecessary water usage and use what you have more efficiently.

The Weeva platform has a dedicated Sustainable Water parameter within the conservation “C” of the 360° Framework. This is all about maximising efficiencies in water usage and safeguarding healthy and balanced ecosystems.

The parameter helps the user to understand, identify, and protect the water sources your property relies on, how to engage employees on water sustainability, and introduces you to best practices covering water pollution and linen washing.

The benefits of sustainable water management are numerous, ranging from reduced risks relating to water supply, reduced extraction of freshwater, customer appeal, and employee wellbeing.

Weeva metrics also help the user to capture data relating to water extraction, use, and disposal. Our tips for water conservation quick wins are built on our dedicated Sustainable Water tasks, which include:

1. A water system map that allows the user to understand their water sources better.
2. A clear and focused process for engaging employees on water saving, including education and awareness, setting targets and identifying an internal environmental champion.
3. Recommendations for avoiding water pollution including Do’s and Don’ts for wastewater systems, waste management, oil and chemical disposal, etc.
4. A water equipment register and template which allows you to track your water infrastructure and improve your understanding of how sustainable it is and what could be improved.

But there are also some choices we can make on an individual or guest level that we in the Weeva team try to build into our daily lives to make a difference:

1. Try to take shorter showers.
2. Turn off the tap when preparing food or brushing your teeth.
3. Ensure toilets and waste pipes are in working order and unblocked.
4. Try to eat locally and pick seasonal produce.
5. Eat less meat – far less water is consumed in the production of rice, flour, and other stables compared to beef.
6. Buy second-hand or pre-loved clothing – a huge amount of water is used in the production of new clothing and denim.

Whether you pick one or all of the above, it could not be truer that every bit counts. Do what you can, and together we can turn the tide on water scarcity and live more sustainable lives.