SMALL businesses may not see the need to save water until all the taps are dry.
But Sanjeev Orie, CEO of business value adds for FNB Business, told SunMoney that if dramatic steps were not taken to help save water now, small businesses would eventually pay the price.
Orie said various reports show that Mzansi risks water shortages by 2025.
“A number of municipalities around the country have already implemented water restrictions to help control the water crisis.”
He said water was one of the biggest obstacles to development and water conservation should be everyone’s responsibility.
“Every business uses water differently and it is important that businesses start investing in water saving solutions to reduce water usage,” he said.
Orie advised businesses to manage this resource properly.
Get a water audit
A water audit will help businesses improve the efficiency of their water use. It provides information on where opportunities exist for using less water, which also saves money.
Engage with employees
Creating a workplace culture that focuses on and takes pride in efficiency can be a very beneficial factor in planning water conservation methods.
Invest in water recycling and rainwater harvesting
Effective recycling and rainwater harvesting has multiple benefits, which encourages businesses to depend less on municipal supply.
Install water efficient fittings
Businesses often have domestic fixtures water such as flushing toilets, sinks and showers.
If these are properly maintained they can save water.
Improve air-conditioning
Cooling towers often use more water in business operations.
Adopting easy solutions like switching off air-conditioners at night and only switching them on between 9am and 3pm reduces water usage.
“As responsible business operators we should aim for long-term, efficient water use. We need to adopt water saving schemes that not only make good business sense but also safeguard the future of this critical natural resource,” he said.
