Ofwat launches water conservation research for Muslim and Asian communities

The UK water industry regulator, Ofwat, has launched a research project aimed at encouraging water-saving practices within Asian and Muslim communities. The initiative, which cost over £270,000 and was led by South Staffordshire Water, focuses on reducing water consumption during specific cultural and religious activities.

Research conducted in partnership with the University of Cambridge and the Cambridge Central Mosque examined water usage during wudu, the ritual washing performed by Muslims before prayer. Findings indicated that using a running tap can consume between six and 12 litres per session. The project suggested that using approximately one litre of water could potentially save up to 55 litres per person daily for those performing the ritual five times.

The study also addressed water usage in cooking, noting that some households use an average of seven litres to wash rice. While the initiative recommends promoting these messages through Islamic television channels and community networks, it cautioned water companies to avoid giving the impression that any specific religion is responsible for excessive consumption. The project has faced criticism regarding the use of funds to address cultural practices while infrastructure issues like leakage persist.