Widespread consumer support for more infrastructure to ensure nation’s water security

Australians are gravely concerned about the nation’s water supply in light of forecast population targets and, though they are committed to reducing household water usage, there is widespread preference for more infrastructure to ensure adequate water supply in the future, according to research commissioned by MWH Australia, an environmental and water engineering services firm.

According to MWH Australia Water Gauge 2010 research, conducted among more than 1000 Australians, 91% of people are concerned that Australia’s current water supply will not be able to support a significant population increase in the next five years.

When asked to choose between more infrastructure (such as dams or desalination plants) versus further water restrictions, 76% of Australians said they would prefer increased water infrastructure, as opposed to 18% opting for a restricted water supply, to ensure water security for the future.

Peter Williams, Managing Director of MWH Australia, said, “We need to think about the future of water in a drier Australia. Our nation’s water issues boil down to a question of supply versus consumption. Governments must encourage Australians to reduce, or further reduce, their water usage. In addition, our water supply must increase through greater investment in water infrastructure. This big issue must be addressed if we are to ensure water security for the future.

“Despite the fact that Australians overwhelmingly believe it is a national duty to use water wisely, we also can’t downplay the emotional and nostalgic role of water in our national psyche. It is a very emotive issue for most Australians and enjoyment of water is seen as something to preserve for future generations,” he said.

Water conservation

MWH’s research showed Australians have a sense of national duty to conserve water, with 95% of respondents believing it is every Australian’s responsibility to make good use of our water.

In addition, it appears water restrictions have altered behaviour, with four in five (82%) facing water restrictions agreeing they have fundamentally changed the way their household uses water. However, this may not last as 50% believe they would be less careful if water restrictions were lifted in their area.

State differences

When asked to rate how good they are at saving water, respondents from Victoria ranked themselves the best, with 57% saying they are doing a very good or excellent job. They were followed by Queensland (52%), NSW/ACT (47%), South Australia (44%) and lastly, Western Australian (38%).

Use of rainwater tanks differs significantly between the states, with more than half (57%) in South Australia using rainwater tanks, followed by 45% in Queensland and 40% in Victoria. This compares to a much lower prevalence in NSW/ACT and Western Australia, at 19% and 17% respectively.

Demographic differences

Williams said what was particularly interesting about this research was that it challenged some of the stereotypes about attitudes to water conservation. “It seems Baby Boomers care more about water conservation than younger generations. Even Gen Y, a generation often considered the most environmentally aware and active, appears the least water-saving savvy,” he said.

Baby Boomers (81%) are also the biggest supporter of future infrastructure measures to ensure our water security (compared to 75% of Gen X and 67% of Gen Y).

Conclusion

Williams said, “It is encouraging to see such a strong sense of responsibility felt by Australians to look after our precious natural resource, something for policymakers, governments and councils to take heart in. However, there are also grave concerns for the future security of our water supply based on current water supply, existing infrastructure and projected population targets.

“It would appear that, while Australians are willing to continue to make an effort to conserve water, they would also like to see governments make sure that infrastructure is in place to ensure future water security.

“We must also recognise that water is grossly undervalued in Australia. Unless the underlying issue is addressed, it will continue to prove difficult to invest adequately in our future water supply. Bottled water costs $2.50 each, yet tap water costs around $2 for 1000 litres. We must strike a balance that ensures water is better valued into the future, while not placing too hard a burden on consumers.

“Investment in long-term and sustainable water management infrastructure and water-usage legislation is a vital task for the nation. We need to make sure we’re building a better world for the future,” he said.