Climate Change adaptation – why it matters to customers

In 2020 we wrote to all water and wastewater companies in England encouraging them to produce a climate change adaptation report as part of the third round of reporting. We also included a set of recommendations that we would like to see from a consumer perspective.

We analysed all the submissions to Defra by water companies in England. This report summarises our findings.

What we found

• There has been a positive shift in terms of the content and layout of the reports compared to previous rounds of reporting. They are more engaging and explain how climate change affects all areas of water companies’ planning.
• It is very encouraging to see that consumers are mentioned in the reports.
• We welcome the mention of affordability in most of them. Adapting to climate change will need investment and we expect customers to receive financial support if they struggle with their bills.
• There are numerous case studies illustrating the many activities water and wastewater companies are doing – on their own and in collaboration with others – and the wider benefits that can be achieved for people and for the environment.

Although the third round of the adaptation reporting shone a positive light on the water sector, there is still work to do. We recognise the need to raise awareness amongst people about the challenges brought by climate change and the actions we can all take to rise to the challenge. For example, saving water and improving our understanding of the responsible use of drains and sewers can contribute significantly towards adaptation to climate change.

We support adaptation reports becoming mandatory in future rounds of reporting. We think they can help a wide range of stakeholders – including Government and consumers – to understand the actions taken by the sector to ensure the taps keep flowing and the environment is protected.