Tara Murray
Brimbank residents are being encouraged to do their bit to help prevent future water shortages in Melbourne.
Greater Western Water, Melbourne Water, South East Water and Yarra Valley Water have united to launch the Make Every Drop Count – a water conservation campaign which engages the community and water conservation experts to share mindful water saving.
As part of the campaign, Melburnians are invited to share their water-saving tips on social media using the hashtag #MakeEveryDropCount or they can submit their tips directly through the Make Every Drop Count website.
Everyone who submits a tip has the chance to win weekly prizes and a grand prize valued at $2000.
It’s hoped the campaign will help Melburnians take small, but collectively high-impact, steps to reduce their average daily individual water usage from 159 to 155 litres a day, in line with the Victorian government’s target 155 water conservation program.
A recent survey found Melburnians think water conservation is very or extremely important, yet almost a third admit they don’t think they are doing enough to save water.
Common methods used by Melburnians to save water include limiting their shower time, installing a water-saving shower head and always turning off the tap while shaving or brushing their teeth.
Speaking on behalf of Melbourne’s water corporations, Yarra Valley Water managing director, Pat McCafferty said they can’t wait to see the creative mindful water-usage tips shared that will collectively make a huge difference.
“We know Melburnians want to conserve water for future generations and will no doubt rise to the four-litre daily saving challenge.”
Parliamentary Secretary for Water Harriet Shing has commended the four water corporations’ efforts to help Victoria become a leader in water conservation.
“As Melbourne grows and we face the challenge of a drier climate, we need to help protect our precious water supplies so we can continue to supply critical needs during dry periods and ensure we have enough water for agriculture, cultural values and green open spaces,” Ms Shing said.
Details: www.makeeverydropcount.com.au/.
