Water research: Finding solutions to benefit all

Abstract

The Water Wheel September-October 2005 10 RESEARCH & DEVELOPMENT Science and technology is recognised universally as an important tool which can help solve a myriad of problems, including food shortages, water-borne diseases, lack of access to basic services, environmental degradation and biodiversity depletion. Developing scientific research facilities is also said to help sustain economic growth and employment, as well as social equity. As stated in the National Water Resources Strategy research has been fundamental to understanding South Africa’s water resources, and has contributed to the development of many of the techniques and tools used for their management. Research is currently underway on the issue of integrating the voice of the people and the poor, and of equity into integrated water resource management, for example. According to a survey undertaken by the Human Sciences Research Council (HSRC), South Africa spent about R10,1-billion or 0,51% of its gross domestic product (GDP) on research and development in 2003/04.

Authors

Categories