As the driest inhabited continent on Earth, water is a precious resource here in Australia. The good news? You and your kids can make a real difference! The smallest change, like turning off the tap while brushing or collecting rainwater, can help protect our waterways.
But it’s not just about saving water; it’s about understanding why it matters. When children learn the value of water, they make smart, eco-friendly choices, becoming the next generation of environmental stewards who care deeply for our land, our climate, and our communities.
In this blog, we’ll provide six easy water conservation tips that your family can start using today. Plus, we’ll share insights on how PGL is leading the way with sustainable solutions at our outdoor adventure camps.
Why is it important to conserve water?
As mentioned earlier, our continent is one of the driest in the world. That means every drop of water is incredibly valuable. In fact, 93% agree that water conservation is necessary. Think about our vast, beautiful landscapes: the dusty red outback, the vibrant rainforests, the iconic gum trees—all of these depend on water, even if it’s just a little bit of rain that falls.
Australians already know how quickly a long dry spell can bite. When we have droughts, it affects everything. Rivers dry up, bushfires become more likely, and our native animals, like kangaroos, koalas, and platypuses, struggle to find food and water. Here are a few more reasons why conserving water is so important:
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Protecting ecosystems and biodiversity
Rivers, wetlands, and coastal habitats depend on healthy water flows to support the plants and animals that live there. When we waste water, we take it away from frogs, fish, birds, and insects that need it to survive. By conserving water, we help keep these habitats thriving, especially in dry seasons.
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Reducing energy consumption and carbon footprint
It takes a lot of energy to pump, treat, and heat the water we use at home. Every litre that goes down the drain carries a hidden carbon footprint. Using less water means using less electricity, especially if you’re heating it for showers, dishwashing, or laundry. That’s great for the planet, since reducing energy use helps cut greenhouse gas emissions, as well as costs.
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Supporting agriculture
Agriculture accounts for 70% of global freshwater use. Without water conservation, farming could suffer, leading to lower crop yields, higher food prices, and even supply shortages. For a country like Australia, which relies heavily on its farmers to grow the fruit, veggies, and grains we eat every day, saving water helps keep our food supply strong, stable, and affordable.
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Ensuring future water security
Water is a finite resource, meaning there’s a limited amount of it on Earth. While the global water cycle replenishes supplies, factors like climate change, population growth, and increased industrial demand are placing immense pressure. Conserving water now helps to secure reliable water supplies for future generations.
In short, water isn’t just for drinking and staying clean; it’s a life force for countless creatures and all the plants that make our country so unique.
6 Tips on how to save water for kids
Ready to save water? It’s never too early to teach your children about water conservation! By doing so, we’re helping them build good everyday habits that protect our planet, support Aussie farmers, and keep water flowing for future generations—one drop at a time.
Below are six simple water conservation tips for kids:
1. Turn off the taps while you brush your teeth
We all know the importance of a clean and healthy smile. But letting the tap run when you’re not actively using the water is like throwing water down the drain for no good reason. A standard tap can pour out 5–7 litres every minute. If two people brush twice a day, that’s up to 20 litres! Instead of letting the tap run while you brush your teeth, fill a small cup with water to rinse your mouth and brush.
Bonus tip: Use a timer or sing a short song while brushing. It’s a fun way to keep brushing for the right amount of time, without letting the water run.
2. Take a quick shower
Just like switching off the tap when you brush your teeth, keeping showers short is a smart way to save water. A three-minute shower uses far less than a long soak, especially with a water-efficient showerhead. It also cuts down on energy use, which means lower bills and fewer emissions. Pick a favourite song that’s around three minutes long, and challenge yourself to finish your shower before the final chorus.
Bonus tip: Get wet, turn off the water while you lather up with soap and shampoo, then turn it back on quickly to rinse. You’d be amazed how much water this saves!
3. Flush wisely
This one might sound a little quirky, but it’s a classic water-saving tip! The toilet uses a lot of water with every flush. While it’s super important to always flush after a number two, you can be a little more flexible about number ones. If it’s just a quick trip to the loo and the toilet bowl is already clean, it doesn’t need an immediate flush. If you have a dual flush toilet, only use the small button for liquid waste.
Bonus tip: Place a small bin next to the toilet and remind kids that toilets are only for the three Ps—pee, poo, and (toilet) paper. Everything else belongs in the bin, not the bowl.
4. Check for any water leaks
Leaks can waste thousands of litres of water each year without anyone noticing. A dripping tap or a running toilet might seem small, but over time, it all adds up fast. That’s why leak-spotting is an integral part of water conservation for kids. Give them a checklist to inspect taps, toilets, and hoses. Listen for quiet hissing sounds near toilets or look for damp spots under sinks.
Bonus tip: If you have a water meter, try turning off all water for an hour and seeing if the meter still moves; it’s a sure sign of a hidden leak.
5. Use the same cup or water bottle
One of the easiest ways to reduce water waste is by using the same cup or drink bottle throughout the day. Kids often grab a new glass each time they’re thirsty, which means more dishes to wash and more water down the drain. Teaching them to stick with one bottle helps reduce unnecessary rinsing and encourages responsibility. It’s a great example of how to save water for kids.
Bonus tip: Let kids decorate their own reusable bottle with stickers or markers. It makes it fun and personal, and they’ll be more likely to use it all day!
6. Collect rainwater for plants
Gardens need water to grow, and one of the easiest ways to teach kids how to save water is by collecting it. On rainy days, put a bucket or bowl outside to catch some free water! This can then be used to hydrate veggie patches, pot plants, or even clean muddy boots. It’s a hands-on way to see how nature can help us save.
Bonus tip: Make a rain gauge using a clear container and measuring tape. Kids can track how much water they’ve collected and set goals for watering their plants.
How PGL is conserving water
At PGL, our whole philosophy is built around respecting nature. When kids come to our school, group, or holiday camps, they learn about the environment firsthand. They see how we manage our water and understand that being a responsible camper means looking after the resources that make our outdoor adventures possible.
Advanced water treatment plants
During the COVID‑19 break, PGL installed cutting‑edge systems at Campaspe Downs (VIC) and Camp Rumbug (VIC). Each plant now purifies at least 10,000 litres of on‑site water every day. That treated water services showers, toilets, cleaning, and maintenance, slashing demand on town supplies and proving that technology and nature can get along.
Rainwater harvesting (water butts)
Up in Queensland, PGL’s Kindilan camp has installed water butts along guttering systems. They intercept rainfall, redirecting it from storm drains to storage tanks. The captured water nourishes bush tucker gardens, native arbours, and campfire lawns.
For more information, read our latest blog ‘Water – a resource worth protecting’.
Come to PGL – an eco‑friendly adventure camp!
Ready for an adventure where children conquer ropes courses, build rafts, and learn a range of exciting new skills? PGL’s outdoor adventure camps blend unforgettable thrills with meaningful learning experiences!
From archery to abseiling, kids develop confidence, teamwork, and resilience while having a blast through a variety of adventure activities. Best of all, PGL is committed to sustainability, with innovative water-saving systems and eco-conscious practices across all our camps. It’s the perfect place for kids to enjoy the great outdoors, make lifelong friends, and learn how to care for the planet along the way.
To make a booking, organise a visit to our camps, or to find out more, get in touch by calling our team on 1300 859 895. Our office opening hours are 9:00 AM -5:00 PM.
Together, let’s champion water conservation for kids, country, and planet!
