Major water companies in England have announced they will not fine individuals for violating hosepipe bans, despite having some legal powers. While fines can reach £1,000, practical enforcement is limited. Instead of penalties, companies are focusing on public goodwill for water conservation. Key voices in the debate emphasize the need for structural reform to address water loss and the reality of worsening droughts. Current measures are seen as insufficient, with calls for better management and resource investments to combat increasing drought conditions and their impacts on society.
James Wallace, CEO of campaign group River Action told the Independent it would be wrong to concentrate on "threatening customers with £1,000 fines for watering their gardens" as water companies are guilty of losing billions of litres daily.
Paul de Zylva, sustainability analyst at Friends of the Earth, said that hosepipe bans are purely a "sticking plaster solution to a problem that is only going to get worse."
"Recent heatwaves only add to drought conditions, making it harder for everyone - not least hospitals, care homes, farmers and transport operators - to cope," added Paul de Zylva.
A spokesperson from Yorkshire Water said, "Whilst we do have the power to enforce the restrictions and have a process to deal with those breaching it, we would prefer not to have to use this and would hope customers would work with us."
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