4.1 Optimise and reduce water consumption

4.11. Reduce losses from mains networks
Water supply companies ought to be obliged from now on to reduce losses occurring during transportation by imposing maximum loss limits. This is a complicated principle as it would in some cases entail the need for renovation of supply facilities. Furthermore, these companies are not usually private organisations, but depend on local agencies, who would find their impartiality compromised. In spite of such a complex solution, it is vital to commence work right away as, more often than not, the profits from being more efficient are anecdotal in comparison to network losses.

4.12. Foster building types with lower water demands
In this case, more so than with the general regulations, the principle is related to design and local laws. This does not imply that demands cannot be imposed on housing facilities. For example, dual-flush lavatory cisterns or, wherever possible, substitution of bathtubs with showers.

4.13. Foster efficient irrigation and watering systems
This applies especially to parks and public places. Regarding private individuals, setting up awareness campaigns and penalty charges per cubic metre of water (for example through local water rates) would help to avoid excessive consumption.

4.14. Incentivise rainwater collection systems in buildings
Again, this is a question of architectural design based on guidelines and recommendations rather than compulsory legislation.

4.15. Use systems to retain and filter rainwater
In the case of unitary systems, this helps to alleviate the pressure on treatment plants that very often discharge water without first purifying the channels due to the inability to absorb peaks. In the case of selective sanitation systems, these contribute to a more efficient system design and helps to replenish groundwater levels, etc. The planner should be required to include this type of system on the plans.

4.16. Treat and recover natural watercourses
Any specific reference to the conservation of aquatic ecosystems. Other more generic ones that aim to favour the water cycle. It has been analysed in relation to the point Respect and integrate into the local environment corresponding to criteria 1.0, given the strong similarities between the two.

4.17. Foster the use of permeable paving
This type of flooring allows peaks to be reduced, groundwater levels to be recharged and lets floors breathe by allowing evapotranspiration to improve. A minimum legal percentage could be introduced in relation to the surface area of the conventional flooring installed. Especially in new areas of serviced land . This presents more difficulties in inner cities. Not just aesthetic difficulties but also functional difficulties which may lead to problems in the foundations of older buildings.

Discussion