Cape Town - Who could have imagined that the most beautiful city in the world would be on the brink of being the driest? “You don't know what you’ve got till it's gone” couldn't be truer for Capetonians. If it wasn’t for the water crisis most of us wouldn’t have realised how important water conservation is.
On a recent visit to Bermuda, I discussed the water challenges it faces and was intrigued to learn how the country has adapted to their water challenges owing to their geographic location.
They have had to craft innovative ways of garnering fresh water. Roof-top rain water harvesting is mandated by law and is the primary source of water for domestic use. The buildings are designed to catch every drop of rain and store it in tanks.
While I’m aware that Bermuda's annual rainfall far exceeds that of Cape Town’s, for us to find a long-term water supply solution, we need to change our water culture and the stewardship of this precious resource.
The Bermuda government equipped its citizens with the tools to achieve water conservation goals and everyone has embraced it.
“We all grew up managing our water system in our own homes and that drives you to have a sensitivity that you wouldn't if it simply comes out of a pipe,” says Alan Rance, Bermuda Waterworks chief executive.
We all need to continually play our part in water conservation and do what we can to avoid Day Zero. I believe the only way we can ensure longevity in water conservation is by putting our children at the centre of water-wise campaigns.
As a dad of two, I’ve seen the power and influence children have over a family. If all children in the city can fully grasp the importance of water conservation and become water-wise troopers, our future will be in safe hands.