Could Rainwater fill the Water Demand Gap?

25% of all the water that comes into our homes is flushed down the toilet. By 2050, we’re going to need an extra 5 billion litres of water a day - almost a third more - available in 25 years.

This increased need for water is driven by a growing population, new homes and a water hungry economy and there's an opportunity to reduce our demand for the highest quality drinking water by using an alternative for things like flushing the toilet and watering the garden.

So in todays episode we explore whether harvesting rainwater and using it in our homes could be part of the solution to closing the 5 billion litre shortfall.

You'll hear from George Warren, from Anglian Water, who's driving the 'Enabling Water Smart Communities' project to see how rainwater and water reuse in new housing developments can be scaled up. Niki's co-host is Tom Chance, the CEO of the Community Land Trust Network, representing community-led affordable housing projects - who shares the wider landscape around building new homes - and how rainwater harvesting could be included.

Sponsors

Planet Possible is grateful to Mackley, Business Modelling Applications & MWH Treatment for their support.

Credits

Presented & Produced by Niki Roach

Executive Producer Andy Taylor - Bwlb Limited

With thanks to Alastair Chisholm

Honorary Executive Producer Jane Boland