"Sustainable development in water and sanitation" : a case study of the water and sanitation system at the Lynedoch Ecovillage Development
Date
2007-12
Authors
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Publisher
Stellenbosch : University of Stellenbosch
Abstract
Water and Sanitation is one of the key factors in the socio-economic development of a nation and people. Billions of people worldwide do not have access to clean water or basic sanitation leading to many health problems and developmental issues. This article discusses the challenges facing the world, South Africa and in particular the Western Cape and Cape Town in the provision of water and sanitation. For most people the desire is to have access to their own private potable water supply and their own private flush toilet connected via costly bulk water services to sewage treatment plants far away.
The question posed is whether this model is sustainable into the future, given the water demands in many parts of the world affected by droughts and more violent weather cycles as a result of climate change and global warming. These factors will affect water supplies in South Africa and in particular the Western Cape and Cape Town. To answer some of the questions raised the Lynedoch EcoVillage development is discussed in detail in terms of sustainable neighbourhood planning and implementation. Sustainable Development is discussed, also various options in terms of applying ecological sanitation. The on-site water and sanitation system of the Lynedoch EcoVillage is discussed as a case study. The results of influent and effluent tests conducted by the CSIR are analysed to see whether the system is conforming to the Department of Water Affairs and Forestry standards for the use of effluent water in irrigation and re-use of water in toilets.
Localised models of water and sanitation provision might thus be a way forward to satisfy the increasing demand for such services made on national and local authorities as urban areas increase in size and population.
Description
Thesis (MPhil (School of Public Management and Planning))--University of Stellenbosch, 2007.
Keywords
Sustainable development, Sustainable urban development, On-site wastewater treatment, Eco-sanitation, Recycling of water and nutrients, Dissertations -- Public management and planning, Theses -- Public management and planning, Assignments -- Public management and planning