Already we see labels on products that conserve power and water, there are flow restrictors to screw into taps and some Authorities use pressure limiting valves, with the theory that a reduced pressure reduces consumption and I have no doubt that over the years these devices have contributed to a saving in potable water.

One major contributor to domestic water usage would have to be the good old hose whether it be used for the lawn sprinkler or washing down the paths, driveway and patio. However, perhaps the fairly constant increase in water charges may soon have some effect when water becomes as expensive as petrol or beer.

Grey water or re-cycled water is also an option that Authorities are looking into and indeed some have pilot projects underway. This may be a viable option in new area sub divisions if proved to be cost effective and could possibly have a slight impact on potable water usage. I would suggest that the cost of such an infrastructure in existing areas would be prohibitive.

Although water Authorities encourage us to use less water, they themselves are on a quest to find lost water. Sydney Water some five years ago introduced the metered stand pipe for water carters and contractors. This move did not necessarily reduce consumption but certainly was an eye opener as to how much was used and significantly reduced water theft. I believe several other Authorities have also introduced metered stand pipes with the same effect.

Most Authorities also have in place meter management programmes which ensure the accuracy of the meter fleet and in turn helps them manage water usage and consumption with industrial users, who are by far the largest users of water. More accurate metering and data logging not only assists the water utility but in turn can help the customer in better understanding his water usage.

The water Authorities also control the amount of treated water held in reservoirs as this costs money so it is controlled by demand via computer systems.

One area where water losses can be very high is in mains breaks and leaks. We have all seen the spout of water shooting into the air as we are driving to work in the rush hour. What about the leaks we don't see where water takes the least line of resistance which is not necessarily up, 90% of water losses are undetected. In another chapter in a Quest to find lost water, Authorities now are looking at pressure management within the main reticulation system.

Most water Authorities are unable to account for between 15-30% of all reticulated water. Australia wide experts estimate that if urban water use can be reduced by 20% this would save rate payers approximately $120 million in water production costs and a further $120 million by delaying the need for costly new infrastructure.
Water, a commodity we all take for granted. From production to distribution it is certainly moving into the 21st century.

The first stage was water production with most Authorities up grading or building new treatment plants, now come the turn of the distribution systems.