Analyse how much water you use

The only way to gauge the true cost of your water use is by analysing it systematically. You should:

• study your water bills - do this over the previous two or three years noting the annual consumption and cost
• identify any trends or patterns - you may be able to pick out seasonal variations
• involve your staff, eg you could get them to complete a water use survey
• produce a water balance - this is a numerical account of where water enters and leaves your business and where it is used
• carry out a benchmarking exercise and compare your water use to other businesses in your industry sector.

Wrap Northern Ireland: The Courtauld commitment 2030

Zero Waste Scotland has produced a series of free, online training modules for SMEs. The training will help develop the skills and knowledge needed to put in place effective resource efficiency measures in your business. They deal with energy, waste and water efficiency. You can work through them at your own speed, choosing the modules that are relevant to your business.

Business Energy Scotland: Green Champions Training

Once you have identified the amount of water your business uses and where you use it, you should identify where you can make savings. Lowering your utility bills will save you money and give you a competitive edge.

You could draw up a plan that details how you will reduce your water use and when the improvements will be carried out.

If you have an environmental management system in place, you may have already analysed your water-use patterns.

Environmental management systems (EMS) and environmental reports

Further information

• Northern Ireland water: Water saving information
• Business Stream: Guide to creating a water efficient business