WWF-UK: Tough action on new housing required to avert water crisis
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Tough action on new housing required to avert water crisis
Tuesday 6 June 2006
WWF welcomed a tough new report published 06 June from the House of Lords Science and Technology Committee criticising the government for failing to take the challenges of water management more seriously.
Dr Tom Le Quesne, WWF Freshwater Policy Officer said: "Water supply is on a knife-edge. Unless immediate attention is given to the issues of environmental sustainability, the government's house-building plans threaten to suck the South-east of England dry. Stringent water efficiency measures must be introduced as part of a package of compulsory sustainability requirements for new-build housing in the growth areas."
WWF also welcomed a range of the proposals in the report for government action, including calls for more widespread introduction of domestic water meters, a much higher priority for the environment in the activities of the water regulator, OFWAT, and water efficiency campaigns.
"A secure and thriving freshwater environment is essential to the health, economy and society of the nation", said Dr Le Quesne. "Everyone has a role to play, from governments and water companies to us as individuals, making sure we use water carefully."OMSH
WWF also welcomed a range of the proposals in the report for government action, including calls for more widespread introduction of domestic water meters, a much higher priority for the environment in the activities of the water regulator, OFWAT, and water efficiency campaigns.
"A secure and thriving freshwater environment is essential to the health, economy and society of the nation", said Dr Le Quesne. "Everyone has a role to play, from governments and water companies to us as individuals, making sure we use water carefully."OMSH
"Water supply is on a knife-edge.
Dr Tom Le Quesne
Related links
Download WWF's Policy briefing: Drought and water shortages as a PDF file.
Find out more about WWF's work in this area by visiting the Freshwater section of our research centre.
Find out more about WWF's work in this area by visiting the Freshwater section of our research centre.