The City of Cape Town is calling on the plumbing sector to take an active stance in combating the ongoing drought.

Speaking at a drought crisis meeting and exhibition with the plumbing sector recently, the City’s Mayoral Committee Member for Informal Settlements, Water and Waste Services; and Energy, Xanthea Limberg, called on the sector to focus on fixing leaks, efficient plumbing fittings and the responsible installation of alternative water technologies in their daily operations.

“We call on members of the plumbing sector to act as ambassadors for best practice on the ground. Their role in helping us all on the journey to adapting to the New Normal is incredibly important as we all work to review our operational methods. It is vital; however, that work is done responsibly and in accordance with our guidelines for alternative water systems,” she explained.

The plumbing sector’s time to shine

The City also launched a plumbing checklist to assist plumbers and residents in our collective efforts to beat the drought crisis. According to the City the checklist has been designed to serve as a guiding tool for when a plumber visits a home or business to make plumbing fittings efficient and to help them find and fix all leaks.

“This really is the plumbing sector’s time to shine, with business opportunities available for the savvy plumber to take advantage of in both the public and private spaces. More and more people are looking to explore alternative solutions such as greywater and rainwater harvesting systems.

“Our world is changing and their skills and expertise are invaluable in the broader effort to save water. We are hopeful that this engagement opens up a channel of communication with this group for a mutually constructive conversation going forward,” Limberg concluded.