Water is one of our most precious resources, and also one of the most threatened. We are facing a growing water crisis, with many regions in South Africa and around the world experiencing water scarcity and pollution.
On 22 March every year, the global community celebrates World Water Day, which raises awareness around the fact that two billion people are currently living without access to safe drinking water. This forces us to reflect on the challenges faced by water-stressed regions and to consider how we can all use this finite resource more sustainably.
Cape Town's Water Crisis
In 2018, our city faced an unprecedented water crisis, with water levels in our reservoirs dropping to critically low levels. The drought was exacerbated by climate change, the city's growing population, and excessive water usage, leading to strict water restrictions of 50 litres per person per day.
This served as a stark reminder of the need for sustainable water management practices and highlighted the role that all of us can play in conserving water and reducing our water footprint.
Using Water More Sustainably
Recently, Cape Town’s mayor, Geordin Hill-Lewis, requested that Capetonians reduce their water usage drastically to prevent another water crisis. Dam levels are currently at 55%, down from 80% this time last year, so it is up to us to take responsibility and make a commitment to adopting more water-efficient practices in our daily lives.
As Capetonians and global citizens, we can take concrete steps to use water more wisely. Here are some simple tips on where to start:
Fix Leaks
A leaking tap or toilet can waste a significant amount of water over time. Check your taps and toilets regularly for leaks and fix them immediately.
Use Water-Efficient Appliances
Choose appliances, such as washing machines and dishwashers, that are water-efficient. Look for the South African Energy Efficiency label and check the ‘Additional Information’ section to see which appliances use less water.
Collect Rainwater
Installing a rainwater harvesting and storage system can help you collect rainwater for use in your garden or for non-potable uses, such as flushing the toilet.
Use Greywater
Greywater is wastewater from sources like your washing machine or bathroom sink. This water can be reused for non-potable uses, such as watering the garden or flushing the toilet.
Water Your Garden Wisely
Water your garden with greywater or harvested rainwater either early in the morning or late in the evening when it is cooler and there is less evaporation. Use a watering can or a hose with a trigger nozzle to target the areas that need water most.
Install Low-Flow Fixtures
Low-flow showerheads and taps can reduce water usage by up to 50%. Installing these fixtures can help you save water and reduce your water bill.
Be Mindful of Your Water Usage
Finally, be mindful of your water usage. Avoid leaving taps running unnecessarily and take shorter showers, using a bucket to save the cold water that comes out before the warm water, and using it to water the garden or in the toilet cistern. These small changes in behaviour can add up to significant water savings and lower bills over time.
The theme of this year’s World Water Day was “be the change you want to see in the world”, which speaks to the massive impact that small actions can achieve when done as a global collective. We can all do our part and contribute to a brighter future where access to clean, safe drinking water is a universal right, not a privilege.