Water is the essential ingredient that all living things need, but are we all guilty of taking it too much for granted? In cities people are used to turning a tap and gaining instant access to water, but that could be about to change.
A water crisis is gripping South Africa, brought on by increased urbanisation and reduced rainfall levels attributed to climate change. Already, official statistics show that the level of water in Durban’s dams is twenty percent lower than it was just five years ago. Perhaps as a response to this, some consumers are turning to illegally tapped water supplies, in effect stealing water and exacerbating the water crisis.
It’s not too late: by taking 3 simple steps you can reduce your own water footprint and help to improve access to safe water for all in South Africa.
1. Reduce Your Water Usage
We all have to use water, but are you using more than you really need to? Carry out a water audit with your family and find out where water could be saved. Simple things can make a big difference, such as taking a shower instead of a bath, Turn off the tap when it doesn’t need to be on, for example turning off the tap while brushing your teeth. Of course, it may not be just you or your family leading to water wastage. Leaks can be a major contributor to the amount of water you use, without providing any benefits. Check for leaks, and if you find one call a plumber immediately.
2. Watering Your Garden
A beautiful garden is a thing to be proud of, but that doesn’t necessarily mean that you have to lavish huge amounts of water upon it to keep it fresh and verdant. Some plants are much more water needy than others, so by concentrating upon plants that need little watering you can make significant savings on your water consumption. Alternatively, you can collect any rain that does fall in water tanks. The water collected is ideal for watering gardens and plants, and cars and driveways too, without having to use any mains-sourced water.
3. Switch To Eco-Friendly Appliances
We can see the effects of climate change all around us, so it’s vital to use domestic appliances that are ecologically friendly. This not only means energy friendly, but also water friendly. When buying a washing machine or dish water look for ones that use less water, and ones that advertise their green credentials. With advances in technology and efficiency, less water doesn’t have to mean a lesser performance.
These are just some of the steps you can take in your property right now to help solve South Africa’s water crisis.