How Water Neutrality Can Be Achieved

Achieving water neutrality involves a structured approach based on three key steps: reducing water use, reusing water, and offsetting remaining demand. These steps align with the water neutrality hierarchy outlined in the "A Review of Water Neutrality in the UK" report.

Step 1: Reduce Water Use

Minimising water consumption is the foundation of water neutrality.

• Efficiency Measures: Technologies such as aerated taps, low-flush toilets, and water-efficient appliances can reduce consumption to as low as 85 litres per person per day (Independent Review of Water Labelling in the UK).

• Behavioural Change: Smart metering and public awareness campaigns play a vital role in encouraging water-saving behaviours.

Step 2: Reuse Water

Reusing water through systems like rainwater harvesting (RWH) and greywater recycling (GWR) can reduce demand on potable water.

• Cost-Effectiveness: Studies show that large-scale reuse systems are economically viable, especially when societal benefits like flood risk reduction are considered.

• Examples: Barangaroo in Sydney and the Weymouth Gateway Sainsbury’s store illustrate successful implementations of reuse systems.

Step 3: Offset Remaining Demand

Offsetting involves compensating for residual water use by implementing water-saving measures in the existing community.

• Retrofits: Installing water-efficient devices in existing homes and businesses can achieve significant savings. For instance, retrofitting seven homes can offset the demand of one new build at a PCC of 110 l/p/d (Worked Example in "A Review of Water Neutrality in the UK").

• Partnerships: Collaboration between developers, water companies, and local councils is crucial for successful offsetting programmes.

  
  

The Role of Policy and Funding

Supportive policies and funding mechanisms are essential to scaling water neutrality. Examples include:

• National Policy: Incorporating water neutrality into the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) as a requirement for water-stressed areas.

• Funding Models: Leveraging Section 106 contributions or market-based schemes like the Solent region’s nitrate trading platform.

  
  

Looking Ahead

Water neutrality offers a pathway to sustainable growth while protecting the environment and ensuring resilience. The UK has the opportunity to lead globally by integrating water neutrality into development frameworks, with initiatives like the OxCam Arc serving as potential showcases for nationwide implementation.

If you need assistance with your development on demonstrating water neutrality, get in contact with our team.