National Water Week is observed from 17 to 23 March, and with the current drought in South Africa, this is a very relevant topic. This awareness campaign serves as a powerful reminder about the value of water and the need for sustainable management of this scarce resource.
While residents of Cape Town are under strict water restrictions as day zero fast approaches, we in KZN have had some relief with the recent summer rains. But that doesn’t mean we are in the clear, and every South African should be doing their part to conserve water and use it wisely. We should all be taking responsibility to conserve water to meet the current and future demand.
Water shortages around the country are getting to critical levels and the impact of water sources running dry will be devastating.
Here are some easy ways to save water:
- Take quick showers, and turn the water off while you’re soaping your body and hair.
- Save your bathwater to use in the toilet.
- Shower in a plastic trough and re-use that water in your toilet cistern.
- Put a full bottle of water in your toilet cistern (do not use a brick, because it will break down and the sediment can damage your tank).
- If it’s yellow, let it mellow – only flush the toilet when you absolutely have to!
- Don’t let the tap run while you’re washing your hands or brushing your teeth.
- Fix your leaks. Whether you go DIY or hire a plumber, fixing leaky taps can mean big water savings.
- Don’t run the dishwasher or washing machine until it’s full. Those half-loads add up to litres and litres of wasted water.
For more information visit www.dwa.gov.za.