water matters

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.

Episode 10: The true cost of water

💧 The True Cost of Water | Water Matters Podcast 🌍
What does water really cost us — when there’s not enough of it… and when there’s far too much?
In this episode of Water Matters, host Matt Rolph sits down with author and environmental journalist Tim Smedley to explore the ideas behind Tim’s powerful article, “The True Cost of Water.” This isn't just about rising bills — it's about the rising toll that droughts, floods, and a changing climate are having on our homes, our infrastructure, and our future.
 
💡 Key topics include:
•Why droughts and floods are two sides of the same coin
•The science behind heavier rainfall and water scarcity
•The impact of climate change on the global water cycle
•Why our current systems are no longer fit for purpose
•Nature-based solutions like rewilded rivers, aquifers, and even beavers
•What YOU can do at home to make a difference
 
🔍 Whether you’re a water professional, a concerned citizen, or just curious — this conversation will change the way you think about what water is really worth.
 
🎙 Water Matters is a podcast and platform dedicated to exploring the most vital resource on Earth: water. Sponsored by GRAF UK, we bring together experts, ideas, and solutions to spark meaningful conversations around how we use, manage, and protect water in a changing world.
📘 Guest: Tim Smedley, author of The Last Drop🗣 Hosted by: Matt Rolph
#WaterMatters #TrueCostOfWater #TimSmedley #Flooding #Drought #ClimateChange #Stormwater #NatureBasedSolutions #RainwaterHarvesting #Podcast

Episode 9: Beavers Are Back! Can They Fix Our Water Crisis?

In this special episode of Water Matters, we witness history in the making as a family of beavers is reintroduced into the Nene Wetlands in Northamptonshire for the first time in 400 years. Hosted by Matthew Rolph, this episode takes you behind the scenes of this groundbreaking project, exploring why beavers are being brought back and how they could revolutionise water management, biodiversity, and flood prevention across the UK.
Joined by environmental journalist Tim Smedley and a lineup of experts from the Wildlife Trust for Bedfordshire, Cambridgeshire & Northamptonshire (Wildlife Trust BCN), we dive into the significance of this momentous event. From their role as nature’s engineers to their ability to reduce flooding and restore wetland ecosystems, beavers are proving to be a game-changer for sustainable water management.
🔹 Why are beavers being reintroduced now?🔹 How do they naturally improve flood resilience and water quality?🔹 What does this mean for future rewilding in the UK?🔹 Will they ever roam free again?
Thanks to our partnership with Wildlife Trust BCN and Graf UK, this episode brings exclusive interviews with conservationists, scientists, and the people making this project possible. Plus, hear firsthand reactions from those who witnessed the beavers take their first steps into their new home.
This is just the beginning. Over the next two years, we’ll continue to track the impact of this reintroduction, with exclusive camera footage capturing how these beavers reshape the landscape.
👉 Listen now to be part of this historic moment and see why the return of beavers is one of the most exciting conservation stories of our time!
#WaterMatters #BeaverReintroduction #Rewilding #FloodPrevention #WildlifeTrustBCN

Episode 8: Beavers reintroduced to Northamptonshire for the first time in 400 years!

In this special episode of Water Matters, we take you to the Nene Valley to witness a historic moment—the reintroduction of beavers to Northamptonshire for the first time in 400 years!
Join us as we speak with conservation experts, wildlife trust members, and local stakeholders about the ecological importance of beavers, their role as "nature's engineers," and the challenges and benefits of their return to the UK landscape. We explore how these keystone species contribute to flood prevention, biodiversity, and wetland restoration while discussing the complexities of current legislation requiring them to remain in enclosures.
We also delve into public engagement efforts, funding challenges, and the future potential for free-roaming beaver populations. Hear firsthand accounts from those who have worked tirelessly to bring this project to life and learn what the coming years may hold for beavers in the UK.
Whether you're a nature enthusiast, a conservation advocate, or just curious about how beavers can help combat climate change and biodiversity loss, this episode is packed with insights and inspiration.
Tune in to discover how beavers are making a comeback—and why their return matters more than ever!

Water Matters Episode 7: Tech Solutions To The Water Crisis.

Join us in this enlightening episode of the "Water Matters" podcast as we welcome Tim Smedley, acclaimed author of "The Last Drop," for a deep dive into sustainable water management solutions. Explore the critical issues and innovative technologies shaping the future of water, from the battle against microplastics to groundbreaking advancements in desalination and water recycling. Whether you're an industry professional, academic, or simply curious about environmental sustainability, this episode offers valuable insights into how we can safeguard our most precious resource. Don't miss Tim's expert analysis and the practical steps we can all take to participate in water conservation.