In an unexpected twist to water conservation efforts, the Environment Agency has advised the public to delete unnecessary emails as a way to save water during droughts and heatwaves. While it may seem unrelated, digital activities—including data storage—consume significant energy, which in turn requires vast amounts of water for cooling data centres.
Why Deleting Emails Helps the Environment
Every email stored in the cloud relies on data centres, which are notorious for their high energy and water consumption. By reducing digital clutter, individuals can indirectly lessen the strain on these facilities, contributing to water conservation efforts.
Simple Steps to Reduce Your Digital Water Footprint
- Delete old emails: Regularly clear out your inbox and spam folder.
- Unsubscribe from newsletters: Fewer emails mean less storage needed.
- Limit cloud backups: Only save essential files and photos.
The Environment Agency's advice highlights how small, everyday actions can collectively make a substantial difference in preserving water resources, especially during periods of extreme weather.
