Introduction
An average museum can use a significant amount of water during a single day. Usable water is becoming a scarce resource in parts of the UK and across the world. This is a result of increasingly unpredictable weather cycles, making it harder to maintain reservoirs. Land use can also result in increased flooding and run off, instead of water naturally flowing into rivers which feed reservoirs. Conserving water and using it efficiently can dramatically improve the environmental performance of your building and save money. While the amount of water used and the improvements available will depend on individual circumstances, there are several options that can help improve the water usage of most museums.
Ways to reduce water use
Rainwater harvesting
This is the collection and distribution of rainwater which, rather than going to the sewage system, can be used in everyday operations. Typically, this is done by funnelling rainwater which falls onto the roof into a reservoir fitted with a filtration device. Once the water has been filtered it can be used for grounds/garden maintenance or for grey water usage in bathrooms, washing clothes etc. It’s not recommended that the water is used for drinking or cooking. More information about rainwater harvesting can be found on the Renewable Energy Hub website.
Grey water recycling
“Grey water” is the wastewater from showers, baths sinks, washing machines, and other appliances, which can be recycled using an installed filtration system. More information on grey water recycling can be found on the TheGreenAge website.
Pressure reduction and low flow fixtures
Installation of pressure reduction valves on pipes automatically regulate the water pressure of the mains water to provide a lower, more functional pressure for distribution. Technological improvements in plumbing fixtures to operate using a lower flow rate, or smaller flush quantity, are widely available. These include taps, toilets, and showers.
Replacing broken machines
While it isn’t the most environmentally friendly option to replace a fixture where repair is possible, sometimes it is inevitable. When a machine, appliance, or fixture that uses water is broken it’s worth considering an option that uses water in a smarter way or can be fitted with water saving technology, such as dual flush toilets.
Fixing leaks
An easy way to reduce wasted water use is to repair any leaks from taps or pipes. A slow constant leak from a sink can use up significant amounts of water if left. The Water Calculator website provides valuable tips on how to find and fix water leaks.
Rain Gardens and sympathetic planting
If you don’t get much rain on your museum grounds, then consider native plants which are more drought tolerant and thrive on less water. This will dramatically reduce the amount of water your museum needs for gardening. It will also keep the grounds looking lush in the summer even if there are hosepipe bans.
If your museum has outdoor spaces and grounds you can consider planting a rain garden. These gardens are designed to absorb rainwater and nourish the soil while reducing flooding. Plants, such as willow, which are often found in rain gardens need a lot of water so these should be planted in areas which are often as risk of pooling water or flooding. Some sites are also trialling growing herbs and flowers for decoration directly under drainpipes and roof guttering run offs – they are watered directly from this and do not require any additional watering.
Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh have created a rain garden, designed to meet the challenges of heavy rain events and flooding, to explore how the garden can adapt to these weather event.