The Met Office has forecast ‘a barbeque summer’, which will see warmer temperatures and rainfall potentially below average. The Department of Health has even issued a ‘Heatwave Plan’ to advise the population on how to cope with the predicted high temperatures. And although the good weather is welcome news for most people, a lack of rainfall over a long period can cause serious problems.

Droughts have a huge impact on the environment, for example in the dehydration of plants and the struggle for wildlife to thrive with low river levels. There are also implications for everyday living, as water is less abundant. Droughts in previous summers have resulted in the banned use of hosepipes for such tasks as garden watering and car washing. If we know droughts are likely, is there anything that can be done now to minimise this risk? The UK Rainwater Harvesting Association has an answer.

Installing a rainwater harvesting system means rainwater can be collected at source and used in non-potable applications. Toilet flushing, washing machines, car washing and garden watering can all use local rainwater. Independent trials have shown that a domestic rainwater harvesting system reduces mains water consumption by around 50% and water does not get lost due to flash floods, poor drainage and old pipe work.

If rainwater harvesting systems were more widespread throughout the UK the risk of droughts would be alleviated, as less mains water would be consumed. So if you are concerned about a hosepipe ban this summer, take action now to investigate how a rainwater harvesting system can be simply installed in your property.

For more information, visit the UK Rainwater Harvesting Association website at www.ukrha.org.