Water is essential to life, yet much of it is used without us realising. While we might save water at home by turning off taps or taking shorter showers, there’s another type of water that use we often overlook. Known as “virtual water,” this refers to the water used to make everyday items like coffee, food, or clothing. By understanding these hidden water costs, we can make smarter choices and protect global water supplies. Let’s explore the impact and how small changes can make a big difference.
Coffee
That morning cup of coffee comes with a big water cost. Producing just one cup uses about 140 litres of water – that’s enough to fill a bathtub. This includes growing the coffee beans, processing them, and transporting them. With billions of cups consumed daily, the strain on water resources is huge.
You can help by reducing your coffee intake or choosing eco-friendly brands that use sustainable farming. Discover more water-saving ideas with the Save Our Streams initiative.
Jeans
A pair of jeans carries a hefty water cost too. Making one pair takes about 10,000 litres of water – that’s enough to fill over 100 bathtubs. You might not realise it but it all starts from growing cotton, dyeing the fabric, and manufacturing the jeans.
To reduce this impact, opt for jeans made from organic or recycled materials and support brands that prioritise water-efficient practices. Check out our sustainable fashion blog for tips on making more eco-friendly clothing choices.
Meat and dairy
Animal products have some of the highest water costs. Producing 1kg of beef takes up to 15,000 litres of water – about the amount needed to fill a small swimming pool. A single litre of milk uses around 1,000 litres of water, roughly enough to fill 40 bathtubs.
You can lower your water footprint by eating less meat and dairy or choosing sustainably sourced options. Learn more about the water impact of food with the BBC Future Planet series.
Electronics
Gadgets like smartphones also require a lot of water to produce. Making one smartphone uses about 12,000 litres of water. This consists of mining raw materials and assembling the device.
Recycle old electronics and choose brands that follow water-efficient practices. Once again, visit the Save Our Streams campaign for more tips on sustainable living.
Sugar and chocolate
Even sweet treats come with a significant water cost. Producing one kilogram of sugar uses between 1,500 and 1,800 litres of water. Chocolate is even more water-intensive: one kilogram takes around 17,000 litres – enough to fill 220 bathtubs.
Reducing sugar intake or choosing sustainably sourced chocolate can make a big difference. Learn about more cocoa options through the Rainforest Alliance guide.
Finances and water efficiency
Making sustainable choices doesn’t have to cost more. Affinity Water’s financial support pages provide resources to help households save money and water at the same time. From free water-saving devices to tailored advice, you can reduce your bills and your water footprint.
Taking action
The hidden water costs of daily products show how much our choices affect global water resources. While the numbers may seem daunting, small changes can help.
Reducing waste, choosing sustainable brands, and making informed decisions all contribute to a healthier planet.
Explore our MyWaterFootprint page for practical steps to lower your water footprint and protect this precious resource for future generations.