Did you know?
World water demand by the turn of the
century is likely to reach almost half of the total global runoff water annually available.
By then, 21 ten-million-plus metropolises the
world over will have to draw fresh water from
sources further away or by pumping deeper
with adverse environmental effects. Yet, the
efficiency of water use remains abysmally
low. An estimated 60 per cent of irrigation
water is lost even before it ever reaches a
plant. In cities, more than one-thirds of the
treated water never reaches the customer
because of wastage and leakage. This
situation cannot continue if development and
the environment are to sustain. Demand
management through economic, technical and
educational means could greatly improve the
efficiency of water use and reduce
consumption.
7 good ways to reduce water consumption in cities
- Introduce water metering and a tariff policy which is fair and which
encourages conservation
- Promote the use of water and sanitary fittings which reduce water usage'
- Initiate a leak detection and repair programme within the city
- Encourage water recycling in industries to reduce pressure on freshwater
- Explore the possibility of reusing treated wastewater for crop production and
fish farming
- Engage the public through appropriate "save water" campaigns through local
leaders
- Ensure that school children develop respect for water
Source:
UNCHS (HABITAT) Settlement Infrastructure and Environment Programme (SIEP)
P.O. Box 30030, Nairobi, Kenya
Tel: +254-2-623781, Fax: +254-2-624265, Email: siep@unchs.org
