Even a leaking tap you only notice when you are in the bathroom can make a big difference to your water consumption. [File photo]

Leaving the tap running while you brush your teeth, shave or wash the dishes uses a lot of water. Even a leaking tap you only notice when you are in the bathroom can make a big difference to your water consumption! The less you use, the less expensive it is for you, so it is good for you, and the environment, if less water is put down the drain.

Even if you drain the water from your noodles when cooking, you can catch the water when it is drained, and use that to water your garden or house plants when the water cools down. Collecting rainwater is another convenient way to recycle water for use on household plants.

Try to take shorter showers to save water, and, taking a shower is much more water-efficient than taking a bath.