Water Wheel - Mar/Apr 2008

Abstract

Letters SA laws lagging behind In view of the pending water crisis I find it strange that the use of grey water i.e. bath, washing and shower water to irrigate gardens is strictly forbidden by most municipalities in South Africa. On the other hand, in Melbourne, Australia, householders are encouraged to harvest grey water and rain water by means of a state subsidy of up to A$1 500 to assist in installing the necessary equipment and visually friendly storage tanks. Duel flush toilets are also mandatory. In South Africa regulations stipulate that: all discharge from any sanitary fixture, which includes washing machines, showers, basins, etc., must be disposed of into the water-borne sewage disposal available. That is the municipal sewerage connection provided. Although municipalities are aware of private use of grey water, its disposal or use for irrigation does not comply with national building regulations; therefore the discharge of grey water to a garden can not be specified for approval by the local municipalities’ building department as the applications would be refused.

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