Every drop counts! A tiny leak in your faucet, shower, or toilet might seem harmless, but over time it can waste hundreds of liters of water. Fixing leaks is one of the easiest and most impactful actions you can take to conserve water and support Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 6: Clean Water and Sanitation.
Why Fixing Leaks Matters
- A leaking tap can waste up to 20 liters of water a day—that’s over 7,000 liters a year!
- A running toilet can waste up to 750 liters per day, enough to fill a small swimming pool in just a week.
- Globally, up to 30% of household water use is lost due to leaks.
- Clean water is a precious and limited resource, and fixing leaks helps ensure it’s available for everyone.
Small Actions, Big Impact
You don’t need to be a plumber to make a difference! Here’s how you can take action:
1. Check for Leaks Regularly
Inspect faucets, showerheads, pipes, and toilets. Use food coloring in your toilet tank to see if it leaks into the bowl without flushing.
2. Tighten and Replace
Often, all it takes is a wrench or new washer to fix a drip. If unsure, ask for help or watch a short how-to video online.
3. Monitor Your Water Bill
A sudden spike could signal a hidden leak. Keep an eye on your bill as a clue to unseen issues.
4. Use Water-Efficient Fixtures
Install low-flow showerheads and faucet aerators to reduce water use even if a leak goes unnoticed.
5. Take the Leak-Free Challenge!
Over the next three days, challenge yourself to:
- Inspect your home for any leaks.
- Fix one leak or schedule a repair.
- Share your success on social media to encourage others to do the same.
Why It Matters for SDG 6
Water is essential for life, but 2 billion people around the world still lack access to safe drinking water. When we waste clean water through preventable leaks, we increase demand on already stressed water systems. Fixing leaks is a small step with a ripple effect—helping communities, protecting ecosystems, and promoting sustainability.
Let’s do our part to keep clean water flowing where it’s needed most. Fix that drip, save a sip!