The UK Environment Agency has issued an unusual yet crucial piece of advice to the public: delete old and unnecessary emails to help conserve water. The recommendation comes as part of broader efforts to tackle potential droughts exacerbated by digital activity.
Why Emails Affect Water Supplies
Many people are unaware that storing digital data, including emails, consumes significant amounts of water. Data centres, which host servers processing and storing emails, require vast quantities of water for cooling systems. By reducing digital clutter, individuals can indirectly lower water usage.
The Growing Threat of Drought
With climate change intensifying, water scarcity is becoming a pressing issue in the UK. The Environment Agency warns that prolonged dry spells could lead to severe shortages, urging both individuals and businesses to adopt water-saving measures—both online and offline.
Simple Steps to Make a Difference
- Regularly clean out your inbox and delete spam.
- Unsubscribe from newsletters you no longer read.
- Use cloud storage efficiently to minimise server load.
Small actions, when multiplied across millions of users, can have a substantial impact on reducing the strain on water resources.
Broader Environmental Strategy
This initiative aligns with the UK’s wider sustainability goals, including reducing carbon emissions and promoting eco-friendly technology. The agency hopes that raising awareness about digital water consumption will encourage more responsible online behaviour.
By taking simple steps today, everyone can contribute to safeguarding the UK’s water supply for future generations.
