Kristen Bell: 'Water conservation is an important issue'

Kristen Bell has spoken out in support of water conservation efforts.

The former Veronica Mars actress recalled that she was alerted to the issue of clean drinking water shortages during a recent trip to South Africa. However, she insisted that the issue is not just one for developing countries and should be on the radar for all Americans.

Bell told US Weekly: "I was always very willing to accept clean water as being a global issue and something that Africa struggles with, but what I've learned through this partnership with Neutrogena Naturals - where I'm a brand ambassador - is how much of a domestic issue it is.

"I got to visit the Colorado River earlier this year and what I've learned was profound. You can actually see the line where the river started. It used to be this big gushing thing and now it's been depleted."

The House of Lies star also offered her tips for small ways that everyone can save water.

"There are tiny choices that everyone can make that profoundly affect our collective water use. Like not having the tap on while brushing your teeth, not starting your shower ten minutes in advance, not doing laundry until you have a full load. In this particular issue, education really is power," Bell said.

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Watch a video of Kristen Bell as she visits Ethiopia with a non-profit organisation below:

Kristen Bell visits Northern Ethiopia from charity: water (special donors) on Vimeo.