Two communities worked together to save more than 1 million litres of water in a year and the equivalent of 3.5 tonnes of CO2 which would have been generated.

The community of Dunkeld and Birnam has been named Scotland’s first water efficient village after saving 1 million litres of water in a year.

Scottish Water and its partner, Home Energy Scotland, set the community the water saving challenge, and worked with local residents and business to take simple steps to reduce their daily water usage.

The initiative was launched after members of Dunkeld and Birnam’s pioneering Climate Café asked Scottish Water for help to save water as part of their efforts to tackle climate change.

Commenting as he presented a special trophy to representatives of the Climate Change Café and the wider community, local MSP and Deputy First Minister John Swinney said:

“Our water is one of Scotland’s greatest assets, but it is also a precious resource that we shouldn’t take for granted. Using water wisely, whatever the weather, is a great way both to combat climate change and become more resilient to its effects.”

Scottish Water and Home Energy Scotland have spent the past twelve months working with community groups to raise awareness of water efficiency, providing advice and water efficiency packs.

Residents used water saving devices such as shower timers, eco-showerheads, Hippo toilet cistern devices, all designed to save water.

Some of the biggest water savings were made through simple changes, such as using watering cans instead of hosepipes for gardening or installing water butts outside to collect rainwater which can be reused.

Jess Pepper, Climate Café co-ordinator, said:

“Scottish Water’s team encouraged us each step of the way, with reminders every month to keep people motivated and informed of progress. Hopefully this is a model that can be used across Scotland.”