Measurement and evaluation (M&E) of water savings are fundamental to understanding the effectiveness of urban water conservation programs. Measurement involves the systematic collection of data on water usage, program participation, and external factors influencing consumption. Evaluation interprets these data to assess whether conservation initiatives achieve their intended objectives.

Yes, the M&E Guidebook is big. It’s technical. It can feel overwhelming. Why? Because measuring water savings isn’t straightforward. You’re trying to quantify something invisible: the water that would have been used if your program didn’t exist.