Water conservation
and demand management (WC/DM) are topics that are commonly referred
to in water resources literature in South Africa, but until recently
it can be argued that the need and value of WC/DM principles has not
been fully recognised or appreciated. Evidence of inefficient water
usage can be found in all water usage sectors throughout the country
and the value of water seems largely unrecognised by most water users
- particularly the privileged who until recently had access to water
at inexpensive subsidised prices. The realities of the new democratic
South Africa demand improved management of our limited water resources.
South Africa is a developing country that is water scarce and water
stressed. In this context the necessity and importance of WC/DM cannot
be emphasised sufficiently.
The implementation
of WC/DM principles is essential in meeting the national goals of
basic water supply for all South Africans and the sustainable use
of water resources. The new water legislation also makes specific
requirements relating to WC/DM and it is therefore imperative that
policies and strategies are developed to meet these needs.
Both terms of
WC/DM are continuously referred to in this report because of their
different meanings and emphasis. It is important to note that the
goals and objectives of demand management do not refer only to the
objective of efficient water resource management and ecological sustainability,
but also to economic efficiency, social development and social equity.
