As a number of countries deal with the problems of poor-quality drinking water and shortages, Australia, with one of the highest per capita consumption rates of water in the world, may face a water-management crisis unless there is greater conservation...

How can we better manage our water resources?

There are two key approaches to water conservation. The first is to change behaviour and reduce the demand for water and the second is to recycle water. Households can reduce consumption by installing water-efficient appliances, mulching garden beds and collecting rainwater for use in the garden or toilet. Innovative approaches to incorporate recycling can considerably reduce consumption.

Some experts suggest that tapping run-off from roofs could reduce dam consumption by up to 45 per cent. Others point to energy-efficient designs, such as that used in a seven-unit development in Elwood. It has a storm-water retention system allowing roof run-off to be stored in the basement. This water is used to flush toilets, saving residents money and saving water.

Most experts agree that building new dams or seeking new water sources is not sustainable since water management also means ensuring the health and vitality of such rivers as the Snowy and the Murray and preserving wetlands. It is innovative approaches to water management that are most likely to provide us with viable options.

Recent developments

Australia's third-richest man, Richard Pratt, has offered to spend $100 million to help develop a national water policy. Believing that water conservation is a key issue for Australia this century, Mr Pratt is interested in developing proposals to harness floodwaters.