The Watersmart team had the privilege of attending the BOINZ conference, where we shared insights on ‘Implementing water resilience systems on private property’.
In New Zealand, water resilience hasn’t always been a top priority. However, recent water events and political discussions around water reforms have brought it to the forefront of our minds.
According to the United Nations Environmental Programme, 90% of major disasters over the past 20 years were caused by floods, droughts, and other water-related events. Furthermore, a 2020 NIWA report for Auckland indicates that droughts and flooding are expected to increase in frequency as time goes on.
Water resilience is crucial for adapting to changing weather patterns, ensuring a safe and sufficient water supply, protecting our properties from damage, and managing the loads on our infrastructure.
Across Aotearoa, we are witnessing many regions where our water infrastructure is either at capacity or failing. However, there are steps individual households can take to contribute to water resilience:
- Rainwater Storage: Implementing rainwater storage systems can support Stormwater Neutrality by allowing households to retain water for reuse or detain water to slow down its release into the stormwater system during peak rainfall. It not only prevents overload but also provides a backup water supply in case of natural disasters.
- Flood Damage Prevention: The recent floods in Auckland during Auckland Anniversary Weekend highlighted the need for flood damage prevention measures. Installing flood barriers can significantly restrict the impact of water entering commercial buildings, mitigating potential damage.
- Water Reuse: A mere 0.6% of the world’s water supply is drinkable, yet we often flush this scarce resource down the toilet. Surprisingly, 56% of water used in households doesn’t require drinkable water quality. We can collect and utilise rainwater or recycle greywater for non-potable purposes such as toilet flushing, laundry, and gardening.
At Watersmart, we offer a range of solutions designed to enhance water resilience in your homes and properties. Here are some of our offerings:
- Rainwater Storage: Our goal is to provide tailored solutions for rainwater collection that meet your specific needs. One of our innovative products, the Aquacomb tank, is modular, allowing for versatile installation options. Whether you prefer an underground tank, placement in your driveway, integration within a concrete slab, or beneath your deck or elevated house, we have you covered.
- Flood Damage Prevention: We understand the devastating impact of floods on your assets. To mitigate such risks, we offer high-quality flood barriers designed to safeguard your property. Additionally, we have introduced “Floody,” a temporary water diversion device that serves as a reliable alternative to traditional sandbags. It provides effective flood control while being easy to install and remove.
- Water Reuse: We are excited to introduce Hydraloop, a groundbreaking technology that marks a first in New Zealand. This innovative device revolutionizes water reuse in your household. Hydraloop collects and processes water from sources like your shower, handbasin, and washing machine, allowing you to recycle and reuse up to 45% of your household water. By utilizing this system, you can significantly reduce water consumption while maintaining a sustainable and eco-friendly lifestyle.
These solutions are just a glimpse of what Watersmart can offer to enhance your water resilience. We are committed to providing cutting-edge technologies and products that enable you to conserve water, protect your property, and contribute to a more sustainable future.
By implementing these measures, individual households can make a meaningful contribution to water resilience and alleviate stress on our water systems.
As we move forward, it is essential to prioritise water resilience and take proactive steps to ensure a sustainable water future for New Zealand. Let’s continue working together to implement these practices and raise awareness about the importance of water conservation.
Remember, every drop counts in building a resilient water future for our communities and the environment.
Stay Watersmart!
