Less 
abstraction
Abstraction is the process of taking water from the environment.
We abstract water from deep underground in the chalk aquifer, also known as groundwater. However, this groundwater can naturally decline when there is lower than average rainfall.
Affinity Water is using 100 million litres less water per day from chalk aquifers than we did in the 1990s - a major step toward sustainability. Our plans include a further 35Ml/d reduction in groundwater abstraction by 2030.
Innovative plans are already underway to reduce abstraction in the River Ver, River Mimram, Upper River Lea and River Misbourne.
By reducing abstraction, more water is left in the environment, helping us to protect our rare chalk streams and the wildlife that calls them home; from shrimps, dragonflies and snails, to water voles, kingfishers and otters.