The Dutch should use no more than 100 litres of drinking water a day, some 34 litres less than the current norm, according to a government plan to preserve fresh water stocks.

Households use the most water while having a shower (41%) followed by flushing the toilet (25%), and using the washing machine (12%). The remaining 18% is used for washing up and cooking.

A shortage of fresh water is looming in more and more parts of the country, prompting the national plan to head off over-use. The public health agency RIVM warned last year that all 10 water providers could be facing shortages by the end of the decade as demand increases. ‘Action is needed now to find new sources of drinking water,’ the RIVM said in a report.

The measures proposed in the plan are mainly aimed at raising awareness and  changes in behaviour. For instance people are being encouraged to shower for shorter periods, and use the small flush button on the toilet to save water.

Other measures include a possible rise in water prices for excessive use, such as watering gardens and filling pools.

Parts of Gelderland, Overijssel and Groningen are already struggling to provide water to new residential property. In Twente, businesses have been refused a water connection because of the shortages, and other water sources will be needed to satisfy demand in 2030, the document warns.

The plan also includes water management measures by the government and water authorities to store water and guarantee water provision in dry periods.