Calgary is a big city on two small rivers, the Bow and the Elbow. Using water efficiently protects the health of our rivers, reduces drought risk, and supports economic growth and quality of life for Calgarians and our neighbours.

Water efficiency means making the most of every drop and using water wisely indoors and outdoors while reducing strain on infrastructure and the rivers we share.

In 2005, City Council approved the 30in30 Water Efficiency Plan, which was updated in 2016, with a goal to reduce daily per person water use by 30 percent over 30 years, while keeping river withdrawals at 2003 levels, even as the city grew.

That plan worked and we reached our goals 10 years ahead of schedule. Since 2005, Calgary has welcomed more than half a million new residents while:

• Reducing per capita water use by 30 percent 
• Achieving universal water metering in homes and businesses
• Keeping peak day water demand below our water supply limits
• Keeping river withdrawals below our targets

These results show that long-term planning, smart infrastructure investments, and everyday actions by Calgarians can make a real difference

This figure shows water used by residents, businesses and institutions as well as water lost through leaks, unaccounted for or not billed. This total is then divided by the number of people living in Calgary.

Calgary continues to grow, and climate change is putting more pressure on water supplies. Hotter, drier summers, aging infrastructure, and recent water system disruptions have reinforced the need to renew and strengthen Calgary’s approach to water efficiency.

While efficiency gains in the past were significant, overall water demand has started to trend upward and efficiency improvements have levelled off. Updating Calgary’s Water Efficiency Plan helps ensure Calgary stays resilient and prepared for the future.

The updated Water Efficiency Plan will set a renewed direction for managing water use across the city. It aligns with Calgary’s Drought Resilience Plan, Climate Strategy, and Environment Strategy, and supports longterm water security.

The updated Water Efficiency Plan will be brought forward to City Council for consideration on April 28, 2026.

Public input helped shape the updated Water Efficiency Plan. From November 17 to December 7, 2025, Calgarians and businesses shared feedback through The City’s Engage portal.

Participants shared what matters most to them, including protecting rivers, fairness and affordability and practical support to help people use water wisely at home and at work. This feedback has informed the actions included in the updated plan.

Visit the Water Efficiency Plan engage portal page to learn about the engagement process and read the What We Heard Report.