Parched prospects II: A revised long-term water supply and demand forecast for South Africa

South Africa is overexploiting its water resources, with withdrawals exceeding sustainable supply. Interventions are insufficient to reconcile this gap, necessitating further action to balance water demand with supply.

(Generated with the help of GPT-4)

The research method involved using the International Futures (IFs) forecasting system to estimate current water withdrawals and supply, and to project future trends up to 2035. The study analyzed data from various sources, including the UN Food and Agriculture Organization's AQUASTAT database, and incorporated information from South Africa's National Water Resource Strategy and large-scale water reconciliation strategies.

(Generated with the help of GPT-4)

This report presents a revised forecast of South Africa's water supply and demand, revealing a persistent overexploitation of water resources. Withdrawals for municipal, industrial, and agricultural purposes are projected to increase over the next 20 years, outpacing the proposed interventions for increasing supply and reducing demand. The study utilizes the International Futures forecasting system to project future water withdrawals and supply, and suggests that without additional measures, South Africa will continue to face a significant water deficit. The paper emphasizes the need for a comprehensive approach to water management, including the use of groundwater, wastewater treatment, and water conservation and demand management (WCWDM) to ensure a secure water future.

(Generated with the help of GPT-4)

Categories: 2030s time horizon | 2035 time horizon | English publication language | South Africa geographic scope | agriculture | conservation | forecasting | industrial | interventions | management | municipal | south africa | water | water demand | water supply | withdrawals