While some regions around the world face devastating floods and others struggle with severe droughts, schools can play a pivotal role in promoting responsible water usage. Beyond environmental benefits, implementing water-saving strategies can also significantly reduce operational costs. Let’s explore some simple ways to reduce water usage in schools. 

Top water-saving strategies

Water is a precious resource, so what can schools do to conserve it? Here are some practical tips.

1. Detect and prevent water waste

Regular maintenance is key to water conservation. Conduct frequent inspections to:

• Identify and immediately repair leaking pipes and dripping taps.
• Install taps with automatic shut-off mechanisms.
• Place educational posters in toilets and kitchens to raise awareness.

2. Use simple technical interventions

Implement low-cost, high-impact solutions:

• Add aerators to taps to reduce water flow without compromising pressure.
• Place a large stone or a closed water bottle filled with sand in toilet cisterns to reduce water usage per flush.
• Consider installing water-efficient fixtures and appliances.

3. Manage school grounds sustainably

Maximise water efficiency in outdoor spaces:

• Install rain collection barrels for watering campus gardens and cleaning outdoor equipment.
• Use native, drought-resistant plants in landscaping.
• Implement smart irrigation systems with moisture sensors.

4. Track and celebrate progress

Last but not least, create a culture of conservation in your school by:

• Setting clear water reduction targets (e.g. a 5-10% annual reduction)
• Regularly communicating progress to staff and students.
• Recognising and rewarding water-saving initiatives.

Conservation strategies such as these can help schools significantly reduce their water footprint, save money, and inspire the next generation. Every drop saved is a step towards a more sustainable future for us all. To find out more about sustainability in international education, discover what our partners at Green Standard Schools have been doing for our industry. 

Written by Stephanie Clark