These case studies demonstrate that water conservation in the home is economically and environmentally beneficial. They also reinforce the view that being water efficient need not involve using inferior products or arduous lifestyles.

This case study highlights how water conservation and self-sufficiency have been implemented in practice in Australia. Furthermore, the ‘Sustainable House’ built by ‘Mike and Heather Mobbs’ in Sydney describes how they’ve also addressed a range of other environmental issues related to renewable energy, energy efficiency and environmentally preferable materials. Their story is a project that we can all learn from and deals with water conservation and efficiency in comprehensive detail from rainwater harvesting and dual flush toilets through to waste water treatment and reuse. The overwhelming success of the Mobbs’ Sustainable House has been exceptionally well documented in ‘CHOICE’ book published by the Australian Consumers’ Association. For more information about ordering the book visit the CHOICE web site.

This ABC website has an interactive look at the Mobbs' house:

The following case studies provide a detailed insight into how companies are designing and manufacturing everyday products that have the potential to use water more efficiently. These product profiles describe how high profile companies from Australia, New Zealand and Sweden have researched, designed and developed new water efficient toilet cisterns, dishwashers and other water using appliances.

These case studies explain the design process involved in developing environmentally improved manufactured goods. They also introduce how a range of other important environmental issues such as energy and materials have been successfully addressed from a life cycle or ‘cradle to grave’ perspective.

Follow the links below to read the inspiring stories of real life people and their water conservation achievements using collected rainwater or re-using greywater around the home.