reader response draft 2

 Thesis statement

Singapore was able to overcome its lack of natural resources to meet the needs of a growing nation through the holistic approach of the Four National Taps. However, installing the infrastructure to supply water is only half of the equation. Ultimately, it's the responsibility of not only the individuals but also educating the public to use water wisely. 

Due to Singapore's challenging history with fresh water, Singapore has placed a heavy emphasis on its conservation. Even though most local water conservation work is originated by the PUB which helps to control water supply through the innovation of new technology. However, 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 by making a difference by adopting good water saving habits. For instance, taking shorter showers which will help to reduce water wastage. According to PUB, Smart Shower Programme. It was verified that 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, a variety of colour will be reflected to indicate different water consumption levels. This can potentially help users to keep track of water usage or wastage through their phones.  

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, it helps people to think about the actions that they take individually. In the article, ‘’Water rationing exercise kicks off in schools to cultivate awareness of conservation’’ from the straitstimes, 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 rise in daily water demand. Every contribution matters no matter how big or small, everyone should make an effort 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.