Water Wheel Nov/Dec 2020: Freshwater Biodiversity

Abstract

There is no doubt that South Africa’s freshwater ecosystems are under pressure and have already been degraded. Currently, our wetlands and associated river systems are in a critical state, with over 65% reported to be damaged and 50% estimated to have been destroyed. This situation is even more alarming when future pressures on water resources are considered – the demand for water is predicted to escalate dramatically over the next few decades. South Africa’s water resources are already scarce and limited in extent. South Africa is one of the driest countries in the world, with an annual average rainfall of less than 500 mm, a significantly lower amount than the world annual average of 860 mm. A fifth of South Africa receives less than 200 mm rain a year. The country’s average rate of potential evaporation is more than three times the rainfall. Many parts of the country are also expected to become drier as a result of climate change, threatening local water supplies. Demand outstrips supply in parts of the country and compounds water issues.

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