Welcome to ECoNETT: The Issues

Management of Fresh Water Resources

The Earth has enough water for all if it is properly managed. An adequate supply of fresh drinking water is a fundamental requirement of sustainable development. Effective management of water can cut utility use significantly and help communities make more effective use of existing resources.

Objective: to protect the quality of water resources and to use existing resources efficiently and equitably

Travel & Tourism Companies should:

take all possible measures to protect the quality of fresh water reserves and establish appropriate emergency procedures should reserves be under threat
provide fresh water facilities for use by local communities in communal areas, or pay for water infrastructure to be installed to serve the needs of both tourists and local communities
minimise wastage of water by undertaking regular maintenance checks
work with customers to reduce water demand; placing notices explaining to guests the importance of conserving water is just one example of a commonly used and effective initiative
utilise water-saving devices to reduce water consumption while maintaining service quality
plant drought-resistant species in landscaped areas
develop appropriate environmental impact and design criteria to ensure that water conservation is a key element of new projects and, if water is scarce and construction may result in local shortages, be prepared to take the decision not to build
for Transnational Companies, disseminate water saving technologies and techniques to facilities in developing countries
reuse and recycle water wherever possible
encourage staff and consumers to incorporate components of the water management programme into daily procedures at home

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