Environment Agency welcomes water monitoring drive

The Environment Agency has voiced its approval of proposals put forward in the Walker review, which recommended widespread introduction of water meters in the UK.

Released on December 8th, the Interim Report of the Independent Walker Review of Charging for Household Water and Sewerage Services stated that implementing a predominantly metered service for water would encourage consumers to use it more efficiently.

In a statement, the Environment Agency said: "We believe the shift to wide-scale metering is essential for the long-term sustainability of water resources."

It continued: "Metering also provides additional opportunities to reduce the water carbon footprint, thereby contributing to UK emissions targets."

Recommendations to offer additional incentives to promote water efficiency within households, industry and the utility companies were also welcomed by the organisation.

Under the proposals put forward by the Walker review, 80 per cent of English homes should be metered by 2020, particularly in those areas which suffer from water shortages.

Posted by Lauren Steadman