At least 60% of the country’s water is used in farming irrigation, and Woolworths, as a major supplier of fresh produce has to play a role in water conservation. We are deeply committed to being part of the solution and have a long history of working with our suppliers to influence change. In line with our Good business journey plan, Woolworths is working with suppliers to reduce water usage and improve the management of waste water and water effluent. For more on how we're doing this, please visit our 2009 Good Business Journey Report on this website. Here are some tips on how you too can save water – and money – and make a difference. •Reuse water wherever you can – throw bath and shower water into your garden or toilet rather than down the drain. •Try to use eco-friendly detergents and cleaning products – we have a great range to choose from, they're much better for our environment and your plants won’t mind them. •Make sure that your home is leak free – read your water metre before and after a two-hour period when no water is being used. If the metre readings don’t match, you have a leak. •Reduce toilet flush volume – this can save water consumption with no reduction in convenience as older cisterns use double the water necessary to function. •When buying a washing machine, look for one that is water and electricity efficient. •Use water-wise plants. Learn what types of grass, shrubbery, and plants do best in the area and in which parts of the lawn, and then plant accordingly. •Water early morning or late evening, during the cooler periods of the day, as much of the water used can simply evaporate between the sprinkler and the grass when it’s too hot. •Don’t over water your lawn. Water every 5 to 7 days in summer, and every 10 to 14 days in winter. In between, as a treat for your grass, you can throw on your bath or shower water. •Raise the lawnmower blade to at least 3 inches – a lawn cut higher encourages grass roots to grow deeper, shades the roots and holds soil moisture better. •Mulch your flower beds, pot plants vegetable and herb garden. •Make sure your water feature recycles the water it uses. •Create an awareness for water conservation in your children – avoid toys which require a constant stream of water. •Report all significant water losses to your landlord or the local authorities. •Conserve water because it’s the right thing to do – don’t waste water when you are staying at a hotel.

At least 60% of the country’s water is used in farming irrigation, and Woolworths, as a major supplier of fresh produce has to play a role in water conservation. We are deeply committed to being part of the solution and have a long history of working with our suppliers to influence change.