Tan Qiuyi Channel NewsAsia 5 Sep 13;
SINGAPORE: Singapore's demand for water is set to double in 50 years with population and economic growth, according to national water agency PUB. The non-domestic sector -- anything outside of homes -- may take up as much as 70 per cent of this increased demand for water.
Singapore imports about 50 per cent of its water from Malaysia today.
NEWater and desalination may reduce this reliance in the future, but the need to manage water demand remains a top priority for the country.
NEWater currently contributes 30 per cent, and treated water, 10 per cent of Singapore's water supply.
PUB's target is to ramp up the two sources to produce 80 per cent of the country's water needs by 2060.
As part of an effort to help companies track their water usage, PUB has boosted funding for companies that take on water audit projects through the Water Efficiency Fund since March. The fund covers up to 90 per cent of the cost, an increase from 50 per cent previously.
Companies can use this fund to monitor their water use.
Under SPRING Singapore's Capability Development Grant, SMEs that adopt water efficiency management systems can also get funding to cover manpower and consultancy costs.
Speaking at a PUB event, Second Minister for Environment and Water Resources, Grace Fu, said that companies' efforts make a difference.
She said: "All of us have to do our part to conserve water. Achieving a sustainable level of water consumption requires our commitment, whether as individuals, households, or industries."
- CNA/ac
