A definition of IWRM (GWP)
The adaptation and implementation of a strategy (policies and initiatives) by a water institution to influence the water demand and usage of water in order to meet any of the following objectives: economic efficiency, social development, social equity, environmental protection, sustainability of water supply and services, and political acceptability.
In parallel with water demand management, water conservation (WC) is seen as a key process. This can be defined as:
The minimisation of loss or waste, the preservation, care and protection of water resources and the efficient and effective use of water.
Generic obstacles and constraints to demand management and water conservation:
Financial constraints. Money is made available for supply side management measures but very little is made available for DM/WC initiatives
Resistance to change by water institutions
The principle often adopted in water resources management is to allocate all available water to consumers irrespective if water is not used efficiently.
Officials and industry sectors protect their personal interests
Most engineers and local development organisations serving the water supply industry promote the development of infrastructure without adequately reviewing DM/WC measures as alternatives
Water institutions own supply side measures
Water conservation measures are perceived only as drought relief mechanisms
Fears that water conservation will result in reduced service levels
Supply side management options appear easier to implement
Supply side development has a greater political attraction plus perceived greater employment generation
Existing planning practices choose the cheapest solution in implementation without regard to operating and running costs (i.e. new housing developments)
Lack of understanding of principles, scope and potential of demand management
Demand management strategies are often incorrectly perceived and implemented as punitive measures to the consumers
Lack of integration and co-operation between the various institutions in the water supply chain, particularly in the water services sector
Lack of ring fencing of the water services functions or the lack of integration and co-operation within the different departments of local authorities
Lack of knowledge and understanding of the consumer and water usage patterns
Lack of adequate knowledge of the drivers causing the growth in demand
The relative low price of water, particularly in the agriculture sector
The low level of payment for services by a significant number of consumers and users.
