Eden Project urges action as flash drought triggers hosepipe ban

Following the announcement that the Environment Agency has declared flash drought conditions and introduced a hosepipe ban for households in Cornwall and Devon, the Eden Project is urging residents to take positive action to adapt their water use.

The Environment Agency recently confirmed flash drought conditions across the Central, Eastern and South West regions, expanding water scarcity to seven regions of England and all of Wales.

More than half of the UK is now affected, with hosepipe bans covering over 20 million people, including the ban coming into force for Cornwall and Devon at 12.01am on Saturday, August 8.

In response, the Eden Project is encouraging households to adopt simple, practical changes that can help reduce pressure on water supplies and support nature during prolonged dry weather.

Andy Jasper, CEO of the Eden Project, said: "Eden Project focuses on connecting people with the wonders of the natural world, showcasing plants and exploring the story of life on our planet. Since we opened our doors in Cornwall, we’ve welcomed more than 25 million people to enjoy our incredible global gardens."

"We’ve created different climate examples, including our dry Mediterranean Biome, to inspire visitors and show how everyday changes can help care for nature and mitigate climate change. The drought conditions and wildfires we’re seeing this year remind us that we need to take action to strengthen our connection with the natural world. There are so many positive things we can do – the future is ours to make."

Charles Sainsbury, Eden Project’s Head of Regenerative Sustainability and Energy, added: "The Eden Project collects around two‑thirds of its water needs on site. Being situated in a former clay mine means our water systems are critical. Groundwater is collected to flush water‑efficient loos, and rainwater is harvested to irrigate plants."

READ MORE: 

• Popular annual lifeboat day event set to return to Cornish village this weekend
• BREAKING: Dry weather forces new hosepipe restrictions across Cornwall
• ‘Sincerely interested’: Andrew George praises Fisheries Minister’s Newlyn tour

To help households and gardeners adapt, the Eden Project has shared practical tips for saving water and supporting biodiversity.

Household Water‑Saving Tips

• Turn off the tap when brushing your teeth to save around 6 litres per minute.
• Shorten showers — showers use between 6 and 45 litres per minute.
• Run full loads in washing machines and dishwashers.
• Fix dripping taps — they can waste up to 15 litres a day.
• Install a water butt to capture rainwater for outdoor use.

Water‑Conserving Gardening

• Mulch plants with bark, compost or straw to trap moisture.
• Use a watering can instead of a hose for targeted watering.
• Use stored water such as rainwater or clean grey water.
• Prioritise key plants like food crops and newly planted shrubs.
• Keep water at the roots using tree bags or upturned bottles.
• Water early or late to reduce evaporation.
• Soak deeply once a week to encourage strong root growth.
• Check pots daily and use saucers to retain runoff.

Dry‑Weather Plant Planning

• Choose resilient plants such as Mediterranean herbs, deep‑rooted perennials and silver‑leaved species.
• Plant for future conditions — select varieties that can cope with both hot summers and wetter winters.
• Establish plants well by allowing gaps between watering to encourage deep rooting.

Top Ten Dry & Heat‑Resilient Plants

1. Lavender
2. Russian Sage
3. Sedum
4. Agapanthus
5. Verbena bonariensis
6. Rosemary
7. Yarrow
8. Coneflower
9. Santolina
10. Gaura

Eden Project’s 25th Anniversary

This year marks the Eden Project’s 25th anniversary, celebrating its impact as an educational charity and iconic visitor destination. It has welcomed more than 25 million visitors and generated £6.8 billion for the UK economy. More information: www.edenproject.com