Managing Water Sustainably in a Changing Climate
A Blue Patch online workshop led by Alice Doyle, a Chartered Environmentalist.Supported by the Naturesave Trust
What happens when the most idyllic eco-getaway turns into a water-guzzling fantasy gone wrong?
That was the creative challenge set at this month’s Blue Patch Drop-in Workshop, where we dove deep (pun intended) into sustainable water management, guided by Chartered Environmentalist Alice Doyle.
This interactive session—part of our Sharing and Solving Challenges Together series—was focused on “A Thirsty Business,” exploring the balancing act between guest satisfaction and water conservation at a luxury glamping site next to a protected nature reserve.
Water shortage in the UK
We kicked things off with setting the scene: Water scarcity isn’t just an issue for faraway places. South-East England, for example, has less water per person annually than Syria.
The global water crisis is accelerating—with some cities nearing “Day Zero” and climate change turning what was once abundant into scarcity.
Thinking outside the box
Then came the twist: instead of brainstorming solutions straight away, we started with the Reverse Brainstorm. In breakout rooms, we imagined the worst-case scenario—what if the glamping site cared only about aesthetics, ignoring its environmental impact?
Worst Case: When Water Runs Wild
Here’s a taste of what our groups came up with:
- Pollution overload: Guests arrive with armfuls of single-use plastic, sun cream runs into waterways, and detergents from self-catering facilities wreak havoc on local biodiversity.
- Luxury over nature: Hot tubs bubble 24/7, waterfalls and fountains flow constantly for ambience, and the nearby river is literally diverted to fill the natural swimming lake.
- Eco-marketing with no backbone: Compost loos drain into the river, invasive species are introduced, and behind-the-scenes water treatment is non-existent.
- Theme park vibes: The site becomes more “Aqua World” than “eco-retreat,” with misting machines, water slides, and constant refills of tubs for day visitors.
These exaggerated scenarios uncovered real risks. Rivers don’t follow borders, and water conflict is a looming geopolitical issue. Unsustainable consumption—whether in agriculture, fashion, or tourism—makes every drop count.
Scene Two: Flip the Script
After a lively whole-group share-back , we returned to our breakout rooms with a new challenge:
Imagine the glampsite gets it right.
Best Case: Water-Wise, Nature-Nurturing
In our flipped scenario, the glampsite becomes a model for sustainability, and guests leave as conservation advocates.
Some of the standout ideas:
- Behavioural nudges: Shower timers, gamified water-saving challenges with future holiday discounts, and fun signage nudging guests to be mindful.
- Closing the loop: Greywater from showers used to flush compost loos, and rainwater harvested for irrigation and cleaning.
- Tech meets nature: Smart meters track usage in real-time, alerting staff to leaks and enabling data-driven decision-making.
- Guest education: Rangers deliver daily “wildlife and water” talks, connecting people to place and purpose. Visitors leave inspired, telling others what they’ve learned.
- Conscious design: Drought-resistant planting, low-flow fittings, and a site-wide ban on
bottled water.
One group even imagined the glampsite becoming a living lab for conservation, partnering with local environmental charities and inviting guests to participate in restoration projects.
Huge thanks to our participants, and to our Patron the Naturesave Trust for making it possible through the Making Business Greener campaign.
Coming Up next month
We’ll be turning our attention to sustainable procurement—exploring how conscious purchasing decisions can drive real environmental impact across supply chains. From water-wise suppliers to eco-certified materials, join us as we unpack how businesses can buy better for a greener future. Stay tuned!
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