The second phase of the Lesotho Highlands Water Project is expected to be completed by 2020 and will supply Gauteng with water. According to experts, however, South Africa's two major river systems - the Vaal and the Umgeni - are already in deficit. These two river systems supply water to regions that generate two-thirds of the country's gross national product.
"To some countries, saving water is a nice-to-have green idea," says Chris de Wet Steyn, a local expert on water wastage. "In a country like South Africa, it is not just a question of leaving a green footprint for future generations; it is an essential component of our being able to survive and thrive."
Home-owners are reminded that if we don't waste what we have, we'll still have it in the future. "While a growing number of people and organisations have realised the importance of conserving energy and water, and recycle bins and reusable products are becoming more commonplace, it still seems that not enough is being done to conserve water," notes Craig Hutchison, CEO of Engel & Völkers Southern Africa.
