Assignment 2
In the Article, ‘’Singapore Water Story’’ from the Public Utilities Board (PUB) (2020), PUB reports that water consumption is expected to double up in the future as water demand will continue to rise in conjunction with continued population growth and economic development. Hence, in order to ensure sufficient water is available for future generations, PUB has come up with various approaches such as the “Four National Taps’’, it meets the requirement within the drinking water guidelines and is also safe to drink without filtration. In addition, various programmes under ABC Waters were introduced like the Kallang River project. It does not only transform a canal into a picturesque river teeming with life but also to encourage everyone to participate actively so that they can appreciate this precious resource. Ultimately, giving recognition for their remarkable support towards the water cause which will motivate others to reduce and monitor their own water consumption level.
Singapore was able to overcome its lack of natural resources through the Four National Taps. However, installing the infrastructure to supply water is only half of the equation. It should emphasize the importance of everyone's responsibilities and also on educating the public to use water wisely.
Due to Singapore's challenging history with fresh water, Singapore has placed significant emphasis on its conservation. Although most local water conservation work started from PUB which managed to control water supply but there is only so much they can achieve without the nation’s population acting wisely to conserve this limited resource. Hence, as an individual, we can start making a difference by adopting good water saving habits. According to Deborah et al.(2018), It states that PUB implemented a smart shower programme where each person can save about 5 litres per day with the installation of shower devices. With modern technology, numerical figures are shown depending on the amount of water used. Alternatively, different colour codes will be reflected to represent different water consumption levels. Such devices will be installed progressively in new estates. This can potentially help users to keep track of water usage or wastage through their phones.
Since non-domestic sectors are consuming a larger percentage of water, it is crucial to optimise water use in industries. According to Navene et al.(2019), it states that various funding schemes would be provided for large industrial water users who are interested in saving water within their premises. For instance, Water Efficiency Fund, that will help in subsidising the costs of new infrastructures being constructed. Aside from the funds, a conference was also conducted to raise awareness and encourage companies to adopt technologies that conserve water. This scheme will not only alleviate the financial burden of the company but also upgrade individual’s skills in water management.
Among the younger generation, the water-saving culture is not so significant and the sense of importance attached to water sustainability appeared to be less prominent. Water education and awareness will aid individuals to understand the importance of water conservation. With that knowledge in mind, people will think about the actions that they take individually. According to Yangchen et al.(2017), it was reported that the use of water was not allowed for several hours and students have to find alternative solutions such as collecting water in pails, flushing toilets and washing their hands with water collected in pails. This exercise taught students to use water frugally and also teaches them a lesson to not take water for granted. It is one of the ways to build a common understanding of water issues and to create shared values on how water should be managed properly.
In conclusion, it is important to reduce non-essential water usage considering the growing population. Every contribution matters no matter how big or small, it is our responsibility to save water in order to achieve a desirable level of water consumption especially when Singapore is considered to be one of the most water-stressed countries in the world.
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References:
Deborah,W. (2018, March 17). 300 families at Bukit Batok first to receive smart shower devices. Channelnewsasia.
Navene, E. (2019, June 3). S＄26 million in funding for firms to implement water conservation schemes. Todayonline.
Yangchen, L. (2017, march 1). Water rationing exercise kicks off in schools to cultivate awareness of conservation. The Straits Times.
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