Page 21 - Landscape-Issue144

RAND WATER EDITORIAL

ALTERNATIVE WATER

SOURCES FOR YOUR

LANDSCAPES

outh Africa’s water security is under
increasing pressure due to climate
Schange, urban expansion, and rising
water demand. To meet these challenges,
embracing alternative water sources is key
to reducing dependency on conventional
supplies. Whether you’re landscaping for
commercial spaces, public parks or private
homes, adopting these alternatives can make
a transformative difference.
Rainwater harvesting
Maximise seasonal rainfall by installing
rainwater tanks and guttering systems to
capture and store runoff. This water can be
used for irrigation, cleaning and even potable
use with proper filtration. Benefits: Reduces
municipal water use, especially in the dry
season. A cost-effective solution for garden
irrigation.

Greywater systems
Water from baths, showers, washing
machines and sinks (excluding kitchen) can
be re-used for landscape irrigation. Greywater
systems filter and direct this water to lawns,
ornamental plants and even vegetable
gardens, reducing overall water consumption.

Borehole water
Tapping into underground aquifers via
boreholes provides a steady water source,
especially in regions with depleted surface Water Wise Tips
water supplies. While installation can be • Use greywater for gardens and landscaping but avoid using it on edible plants unless
costly, borehole water can supplement properly treated.
garden irrigation or even domestic use if • Ensure water from boreholes or rainwater tanks is stored in sealed containers to
treated properly. prevent contamination.
• Limit greywater usage to non-edible plants and avoid spraying it directly onto leaves.
Treated wastewater • Prioritise alternative water for irrigation, cleaning and flushing to reduce potable water
Effluent from wastewater treatment plants consumption.
can be treated and re-used for landscape
irrigation. This source, typically used for larger
commercial landscapes and municipalities,
offers a reliable, eco-friendly water solution. The Water Wise Approach
Sustainability goes beyond sourcing water—it’s about using it efficiently. Always incorporate
Desalination water-saving irrigation techniques such as drip irrigation, mulching and smart irrigation
Desalination can offer a crucial alternative in controllers to ensure that every drop is used effectively. By exploring these alternative water
coastal regions where freshwater is scarce. sources, we can build more resilient landscapes that thrive under water-scarce conditions.
This process turns sea water into usable water Whether you’re a homeowner, landscape architect or urban planner, adopting these practices
for irrigation and non-potable purposes. today will shape the sustainable landscapes of tomorrow.

FOR FURTHER
INFORMATION ON
WATER WISE, PLEASE
CONTACT US ON:
0860 10 10 60.
www.randwater.co.za

Check us out www.salandscape.co.za Landscape SA • Issue 144 2024 19