Water is a precious asset, it is scarce, and in places like Ibiza, it is finite, so it should be used with special care because, as an island, resources are limited. It is precisely during months like August when water users are multiplied fivefold during the high season for tourists, that it is important for residents and visitors to be aware that this resource must not be squandered.
The island’s water reserves have decreased by three percent compared to records at the same time last year, and our water sources are at lower than half their capacity, therefore the island is in pre-drought alert mode. Furthermore, according to the data compiled by the National Statistics Institute, water consumption in the Balearic Islands has increased by ten percent in recent years.
Therefore here we suggest five golden rules for using water wisely, enjoying Ibiza, and leaving minimal footprint on the island.
- Do not use the toilet as a waste bin. Aside from being uncivil behaviour, because it can block drainage pipes, it is an extremely polluting daily activity which every year requires local cleaning services to remove from our coasts wipes and other waste that contaminates our environment. Place all the waste that you create in a waste bin, including toilet paper and only flush when necessary, so that you do not waste water.
- Shower instead of bathing. Even though there is a fabulous jacuzzi in your hotel, the truth is that they use up considerable amounts of water. In fact, if you choose to shower, you can save up to 150 litres of water, which adds up to a considerable amount yearly. When you are on the beach, if you use the showers provided, remember that their timers provide sufficient water for a bather to remove salt, don’t hang around under the shower and don’t use soap or other polluting products in these areas.
- Don’t leave the tap on during washing. This is a very common habit and you should be aware that this little gesture of turning the tap off while you clean your teeth, shave or wash your face can save up to 12 litres of water every day.
- Make sure the dishwasher and the washing machine are always full. It is important to ensure whenever you use domestic appliances involving water, that they are full, so that you use this asset economically. Furthermore, according to a study by Madrid’s water company Canal Isabel II, use of a dishwasher can save up to 30 litres of water a day.
- Do not change your towels daily. Everywhere you stay on the island you will find a message reminding you that you can help the environment by leaving your bathrobe or towel on the hanger, to indicate that it is still clean and that it does not need to be washed daily.
These are just a few simple habits that you can acquire to save water and protect the island environment and which, in the short and long term, will be beneficial to ensuring that this corner of the Mediterranean continues to remain a true paradise.