Forum on Water Restrictions in SA Green Stamp Plus
MTA SA held a forum which included an overview of water conservation and water restrictions to link with a recent article on water conservation in the motor trade. The forum was combined with an OH&S meeting to ensure attendance.
Neil White from SA water spoke to the group on water conservation and water restrictions in South Australia. Neil provided background information on the sources of South Australia’s water supply, highlighting the worsening condition of the River Murray which is seeing record low flows and the low levels of South Australia’s dams which are only at 80% capacity due to the uptake of water from the river Murray.
65% of South Australia’s water is used by households, where it is wasted particularly in gardens. This does not mean that only house holds should be reducing the amount of water used as every drop saved counts. Neil also explained that it is worthwhile getting a plumber to do an audit to determine where water is being lost or wasted. This is particularly worthwhile as a $100 rebate will be available. A $150 rebate will also be available for householders who install a dual flush toilet to replace a single flush toilet. Other rebates are also available and information on these can be accessed at:
www.sawater.com.au/SAWater/YourHome/SaveWaterInYourHome
At present South Australia is on level 3 water restrictions, which Neil White explained. The main area of the motor Trade that is affected by these restrictions is washing vehicles. At present MTA members have a permit to wash vehicles however if the water restrictions are increased to level 3A then that permit may no longer be valid. Neil explained that around the 24th of each month it is decided whether the next month will see a tightening of water restrictions.
This means that when we are put on level 3A water restrictions we will have very little time before we must comply. This highlighted how important it is that we start preparing the motor trade for this inevitable event. Neil also recommended that for anyone considering implementing water saving measures for example installing rainwater tanks or devices to recycle water, if the payback period is 2-3 years then it would be worthwhile as he doesn’t not see any lessening of water restriction in that time.
Neil was very informative and provided a good general overview of water conservation issues and what can be done to reduce water use in the home and industry. He also made us very aware that water restrictions are most likely going to get worse before they get better highlighting the importance of providing the industry with as much information and support to help lessen their water use.