By reducing the burden on our freshwater sources and replenishing these vital resources, we can secure water supply for generations to come, ensuring a sustainable future for all
As humanity grapples with dwindling freshwater reserves, the urgency to adopt sustainable water solutions has never been greater. Recent studies have revealed the alarming reality of groundwater depletion, with the extraction of over 2,150 gigatons of groundwater between 1993 and 2010 causing a shift in the Earth's axis. This sobering fact serves as a wake-up call, compelling us to rethink our relationship with water and the dire consequences of its scarcity.
To address this critical challenge, a multi-pronged approach involving all sectors of society is imperative. From industries and agriculture, which account for a significant portion of freshwater consumption, to individual households and communities, every stakeholder must actively participate in conserving and replenishing our water resources.
Actions By Various Stakeholders
For industries, integrating water-saving measures into their operations is crucial. Implementing water treatment plants, conducting water audits, and promoting a culture of water conservation can lead to substantial savings. Leveraging technology like IoT for real-time monitoring and data analytics has the ability of greatly amplifying impact. Businesses can also extend their water conservation initiatives beyond their facilities by enhancing water storage capacity in rural areas, restoring natural water bodies, and rejuvenating ponds and wells for groundwater recharging.
Supply chains are also a critical component of water stewardship. Large businesses can guide and incentivise supply chain partners, often SMEs, to adopt rainwater harvesting, efficient irrigation, and wastewater treatment and reuse. Fostering transparency and sharing best practices enhances overall water resilience across sectors. This integrated approach ensures every supply chain link contributes to water conservation, reducing the water footprint of products and services.
The agricultural sector, responsible for a staggering 70 percent of global freshwater consumption, must pivot towards sustainable and adaptive farming practices. Strategies such as crop diversification, rotation, and intercropping can improve soil moisture retention, reducing the need for irrigation. Additionally, embracing water-efficient irrigation systems like drip or sprinkler systems can significantly minimise water wastage, ensuring optimal use of every drop.
At the individual and community levels, conscious choices and actions can collectively result in a substantial impact. Reusing wastewater, collecting rainwater, adopting efficient appliances, and supporting environmentally conscious businesses can significantly ease the strain on water resources. Home buyers can invest in net-zero water buildings, while housing societies or residential complexes can install rainwater harvesting mechanisms and green infrastructure that allows stormwater to percolate underground.
An example of water conservation is Birkha Bawari, located in a low-rainfall area in Rajasthan. Birkha Bawari is an innovative rainwater harvesting system in Umaid Heritage Residential Complex, Jodhpur. The 110-acre township has an open rainwater storage structure inspired by traditional baolis, designed to collect runoff from the entire site catchment area. The ingenious system employs various water conservation methods. The catchment area's natural slopes and rooftop drainage channels convey rainwater to the 135 m-long Birkha Bawari structure. It consists of sedimentation tanks and a series of deep underground storage tanks up to 18m depth, minimising evaporation losses. A first-flush system avoids debris entry during initial rainfall.
With an annual recharge capacity of 17.5 million litres, Birkha Bawari meets 8-9 months of landscaping needs, sustaining 15 acres of green areas in this water-scarce region. The project demonstrates effective stormwater management by minimising waterlogging. It provides socio-economic and environmental benefits, improving the micro-climate and serving as a recreational space. Efficient design using local materials and labour has reduced costs while reviving traditional water harvesting wisdom.
The bawari is a testament to how community initiatives, such as restoring local water bodies, implementing community-based rainwater harvesting systems, and promoting water-efficient practices among communities, can contribute to water conservation efforts.
Further engaging with communities, raising awareness, and collaborating with local governments and non-governmental organisations (NGOs) can ensure the long-term sustainability of these projects and foster a sense of ownership among the people.
The escalating water crisis demands a collective commitment to sustainable water solutions. By embracing "Water for Peace" and fostering equitable resource management, businesses can contribute to environmental sustainability and community well-being, fostering harmony, resilience, and hope for a better future in the face of climate change.
As individuals and communities, the sustainable practices we initiate today will transform how we live tomorrow.
By reducing the burden on our freshwater sources and replenishing these vital resources, we can secure water supply for generations to come, ensuring a sustainable future for all.
(Tejashree Joshi, Head Environmental Sustainability, Godrej & Boyce)