A study of the impact of rationalisation of a water distribution system

Abstract

An Overview of Essential Information: The term 'Rationalization' is normally attributed to issues related to economic aspects. The scope of this study is to promote awareness to the general public and relevant authorities regarding efficient usage of all available water resources on our island. Rational and integrated use of water resources leads to an enhanced management with economical improvements. The ever-increasing energy cost, demands an in-depth study of alternative and more sustainable methods of water distribution for different uses, both in spatial and temporal level. Research in the renewable resources field could be the solution to satisfy the various needs of the different users which would lead to a better standard of living and economic growth whilst putting a lesser financial stress on the Government. This study is based within the Maltese scenario and is also intended to encourage discussion on how 'grey water' and waste water, which till now were considered as a health hazard, could be an alternative, cheaper water source to use for our daily needs. This study hopes to create awareness regarding the precarious present conditions of the aquifers due to uncontrolled exploitation. Wastewater has always been at the heart of heated debates with diverging opinions on how to contain it and dispose of it safely. The contamination of certain coastal waters in specific areas of our shorelines is a reality (Appendix I). Typical warning notices for bathers may be seen all along the coast line especially on the South East end of the Island. This situation does not promise well for the tourist industry on which the economy of these Islands heavily depends. Better use of waste water by using new technologies that would permit its treatment and reuse, would have a two fold effect, both in the agriculture and the tourist sector. To succeed in achieving the desired results, both local and central governments have to be involved to strengthen existing while proposing innovative methods which may have been overlooked or were not implemented due to lack of concern. Available technologies make it possible to control and reuse the water available around us. The rapid growth in population, the resulting urbanization and industrialization, the increase in tourist development facilities and the need for extended irrigated agriculture, have put the production of water under stress. This situation more than ever should make policy makers realize the need for a long term strategy to manage our limited water resources effectively, rationally and sustain ably. With this in mind, the present trend of 'use and discard' must come to an end. Methodology: To achieve this objective, an appreciation of current consumer practices will be conducted which will involve investigating consumers' habits, attitudes, culture and social class affinity. These probing questions would focus on the availability of resources which have not as yet been utilised to the full by the Maltese community. The realisation of future water scarcity will assist management and policy makers in tailoring adequate and strategic actions to satisfy consumers' current and future expectations.