Author(s): F. Lepore; Y. Prouzos
Linked Author(s):
Keywords: Water concervation devices; On-site detention; Water resources
Abstract: The following article reports on an investigation carried out investigating ways in which consumption can be reduced in South Australian (SA) homes through the use of Water Conservation devices and on-site retention. SA faces problems in the future in terms of water availability, the River Murray currently has significant problems surrounding its health and the state receives relatively low rainfall. Residents of SA need to ensure that they are efficient as possible in their patterns of usage and should investigate ways in which they can reduce their mains consumption. The Department of Environment and Heritage (DEH) together with the Campbelltown City Council (CCC) have trialed a scheme which specifically targets reducing mains water consumption through the capture and use of roof run-off. The scheme trialed offers reduced rates on the purchase of rainwater tanks and associated materials. The associated materials include flow reduction devices, such as tap timers, AAA rated showerheads etc as well as education on how to reduce consumption outside the home. The article discusses how effective some of these conservation devices are compared to ordinary systems. A resident who already has a roof run-off harvesting system up and running is also investigated, allowing savings to be calculated as well as costs associated with a system. Another important part of the study was an investigation into the social acceptability of these systems/devices. Consumer's views and perceptions were recorded through a survey conducted over the phone and in the Campbelltown Council area. SA is on the forefront of innovative design; a development within the Adelaide metropolitan area called ‘Mawson Lakes' is researched which may have significant impacts on the way water is used and reused in the urban environment. These new forms of technology and development are aimed at reducing consumption and becoming more efficient with our usage. It is important for this research to continue, as water is the world's most valuable resource, little can be done without it.
Year: 2003