water matters

Beavers One Year On: How Rewilding Is Reshaping Wetlands

One year after beavers were reintroduced to this site, Tim Smedley returns to see what’s changed.
Joined by Ben from the Wildlife Trust, he explores how the beavers have shaped the landscape — from tree felling and canal building to water storage, habitat creation, and public reaction.
Filmed on location, this documentary-style episode offers a grounded look at how rewilding works in practice, and what these animals can teach us about restoring nature and managing water in a changing climate.

Old Worlds, New Solutions: Ancient Civilisations and Modern Nations Teach Us About the Water Crisis

In this episode, Callum and author Tim Smedley take a deep dive into why the UK is more water-stressed than most people realise—and how solutions from both the ancient world and modern engineering could transform our future.
From Australia’s household rainwater tanks to Mexico City’s ambitious urban schemes, and from Iranian qanats to forgotten cisterns in Europe, this conversation uncovers the systems that once sustained entire civilisations and the technologies that could help us do the same today. They also explore emerging UK initiatives—like smart water butts and slow-drain systems—that could ease pressure on overwhelmed sewers and help communities adapt to extremes of drought and downpours.

Why Hosepipe Bans Still Matter — And How Gardeners Are Adapting

Host Callum sits down with videographer Luke to discuss the ongoing hosepipe bans across the UK and the growing impact on everyday gardeners. They share customer stories from Yorkshire and Oxfordshire, show how reservoirs are visibly struggling, and explore practical ways people are collecting and re-using rainwater at home.

From 1976 to Now: Are Britain’s Droughts Getting Worse?

Host Matt is joined by author Tim Smedley to ask: was the summer of 1976 really as bad as we remember, or are today’s droughts even tougher? They compare two generations of water scarcity, discuss how Britain’s weather and infrastructure have shifted, and explore what needs to change — from national reservoirs to home rainwater harvesting. A clear-eyed look at nostalgia, climate, and the future of water in the UK.

Introducing the Water Matters Yearbook 2025 | A New Era for Water Awareness

📘 In this special episode of Water Matters, we dive into the launch of the very first Water Matters Yearbook 2025 — a new annual publication designed to raise awareness and spark meaningful conversations about the state of water globally.
We’re joined by Damian and Shaun, the creators of the Yearbook, to discuss why it was created, the insights it reveals about water challenges around the world, and how it aims to become a catalyst for change. From global trends and UK-specific issues to innovative projects and hopeful stories, this episode explores how the Yearbook brings crucial conversations into focus.
🌐 Download the Yearbook for free and join the conversation at WaterMatters.life
👉 Don’t forget to like, comment and subscribe for more discussions on water, climate and sustainability.

15 Episodes In: What We’ve Learned About Water, Drought & Flooding

15 episodes in — and it's time to pause, reflect, and look ahead.
In this behind-the-scenes special, the Water Matters team steps in front of the mic to revisit the journey so far. We dive into six of the most important and still-relevant topics we've covered — the moments that sparked conversation, changed perspectives, and pushed us to think differently about water.
Whether you've been with us since episode one or you’re just tuning in, this is the perfect time to catch up, reset, and get ready for what’s next.
🌍 What have we learned?
🔍 What still needs to be said?
💧 And where do we go from here?
Join us as we recap the road so far — and share a glimpse of what’s to come.

Episode 14: Rainwater Harvesting 101: What, Why & How

In this episode of the Water Matters Podcast, host Matthew Rolf unpacks everything you need to know about rainwater harvesting. We cover why it matters, how it works, and the pros and cons of above vs. below-ground tanks. Plus, hear expert tips from the Graf UK team on filtration, retrofitting systems, and the smartest ways to use harvested rainwater at home. Whether you’re a homeowner or self-builder, this episode will help you cut mains water use and make every drop count.

Episode 13: No Mow May - Why Skipping the Lawn Mowing Could Save Water and Wildlife

Should you stop mowing your lawn in May? In this episode, journalist Tim Smedley joins us to explore No Mow May—why letting your grass grow can save water, boost biodiversity, and make your garden more climate-resilient.
We dig into the link between garden habits, drought risk, and how skipping the mower helps both pollinators and the planet. If you're into sustainable gardening, climate action at home, or just want an excuse to ditch the lawn mower, this one’s for you.

Episode 12: From Hosepipe Bans to Smart Meters – April’s Water Headlines

Join us for Episode 12 of the Water Matters podcast as we look back at everything that happened in the world of sustainable water management during April 2025. From record-low rainfall and growing water scarcity concerns to rising water bills, smart meters, and sewage pollution — this month has been packed with big stories and important changes.
We also explore the Great UK Water Blitz, the state of our rivers, and how legislation is tightening around water company accountability. Whether you’re interested in the climate impact on water, infrastructure issues, or just want to learn how to reduce your bill, this episode covers it all.

Episode 11: How Much Is Water a Focus at UK Homebuilding Exhibitions?

🎙️ How much is water a focus at UK Homebuilding Exhibitions? | Water Matters Podcast episode 11
In this episode of the Water Matters podcast, we ask a simple but important question: How much is water really being talked about at homebuilding shows in the UK?
Fresh from exhibiting at the National Homebuilding & Renovating Show at the NEC Birmingham, we reflect on what we saw (and didn’t see) when it comes to sustainable water management. With over 380 exhibitors and thousands of visitors, only a handful of companies were talking about water – something we believe is a major blind spot in the industry.
Host Matt shares: 💧 What the show was like from Graf UK's perspective 📊 How many companies focused on water vs other sustainability topics 🚿 Why this matters for the future of self-build and eco-conscious construction 🗣️ Plans to explore and report from more exhibitions throughout 2025
You’ll also hear from Callum Vallance-Poole, Head of Brand & Marketing at Graf UK, in a short clip recorded live at the event.
Thanks for tuning in — and stay with us as we continue to bring the conversation of water to the surface.