EDITORIAL - Water scarcity a serious issue

There comes a time when one can no longer hide one’s head in the proverbial sand and pretend that everything will be fine if a problem is ignored long enough. There comes a time when one has to stop one’s actions and take stock of said problem, changing course where necessary to make improvements for the future. Well the time is now and the problem is water scarcity.

 

For far too long – what may seem like years to many experiencing difficulty – Barbadians in some parishes have been suffering from low or no water supply. This issue has reached national focus in recent months, with the Barbados Water Authority (BWA) facing pressure from the public to find solutions for citizens in rural areas. That organisation has also been tasked at the same time with fixing a number of major leaks, replacing several mains across the island, as well as undergoing relocation of its physical plant and changes to its operating procedures.

 

It is true to say that most organisations could stand to benefit from greater efficiency and the BWA is no exception. Faster response times, improved public communication and better infrastructure are some areas that could always be improved. However, while it may be convenient to blame the BWA for all ills concerning poor water supply, the fact remains that Barbados is presently experiencing drought conditions and has for the past three years received relatively low rainfall. Add to this the realisation that this country is considered a water scarce country – less than 1 000 cubic meters of water is allocated to each individual per year – and Barbados’ water 

woes should not be considered the fault of a sole organisation.

 

For years, Barbadians have been warned repeatedly to conserve water, with the BWA and the Government Information Service, for example, working tirelessly to impart this message by sending representatives out into the communities and schools to educate on proper water use. A highly visible media information campaign aimed at changing the general public’s behaviour with regard to water conservation was also launched.

 

Despite this plea, it seems as though the warnings and advice have gone unheeded, for there was still evidence of water wastage on a daily basis. With the severe water shortage this year, there was a need for added restrictions and prohibition notices were issued regarding the wastage of water for non-essential purposes. It was hoped this would stem the flow of water wastage across the island and conserve the resource for critical usage.

 

With all these strategies, it is evident that water conservation is foremost on the mind of everyone in this country. Still, more needs to be done. The BWA, for instance, must work on its shortfalls to ensure an efficient system, while researching alternative solutions to increase water supply in the face of low rainfalls. Also, Government and the private sector need to work together to ensure efficiency in water distribution methods to cut down wastage, employing appropriate technology and water-saving products where possible.

 

Finally, Barbadians need to reset their attitudes where water conservation is concerned, becoming more responsible for their actions. There is only so much the BWA, government and the private sector can do. Every single man, woman and child living in this country must play their part too. Take an active role. Do not wait for others to do the right thing, instead, lead by example.