Water efficiency is the practice of reducing water consumption by measuring the amount of water required for a particular purpose and the amount of water used or delivered. Water efficiency differs from water conservation in that it focuses on reducing waste, not restricting use. Solutions for water efficiency not only focus on reducing the amount of potable water used but also on reducing the use of non-potable water where appropriate (e.g. flushing toilet, watering landscape, etc.). It also emphasizes the influence consumers can have on water efficiency by making small behavioral changes to reduce water wastage, and by choosing more water-efficient products. Some examples of water-efficient steps include: fixing leaking taps, keeping the running tap off while brushing, taking showers rather than baths, installing displacement devices inside toilet cisterns, using urinals as opposed to toilet stalls, and using dishwashers and use washing machines with full loads. These examples fall under the definition of water efficiency, as their purpose is to obtain the desired result or level of service with the least water necessary.
