Stellenbosch University
Welcome to Stellenbosch University
Play your part to save water!
Author: Corporate Communication/Korporatiewe Kommunikasie
Published: 19/07/2017

​As of 17 July Stellenbosch Municipality, like the City of Cape Town, is subject to level 4B water restrictions. This means each person is restricted to the use of a total of 87 liters of potable water per day. This thus includes a person's total water use at work and at home. 

“For a while now, Stellenbosch University has not irrigated its gardens. Exotic plant species are replaced by indigenous and endemic plants over a long period," says John de Wet, Manager: Environmental Sustainability at Facilities Management.

 The University also does the following to save water:

  • Water-permeable paving is used to allow rainwater to penetrate the soil and refill the underground aquifers.
  • Landscaping is designed to maintain water and thus to absorb and save water.
  • A limited amount of grey water is reused.
  • Water-saving showerheads and toilets have been installed on campuses.  
  • Water leaks are continually tested and fixed.
  • Rainwater is collected and reused.
  • Water quality is monitored for pollution.

 “Each and every staff member can play his/her part to save water. Here are a few things you can do to stick to your limit of 87 liters per person per day:"

  • Shower for only two minutes and use water-saving showerhead. Limit the water if you take a bath.
  • Collect your shower and basin water and re-use it to flush your toilet and use it in the garden.
  • Do not defrost food under running water.
  • Use a cup for brushing teeth or shaving. Do not leave the water running.
  • Turn off the tap while you soap your hands to wash them.
  • Wait for a full load before using your washing machine.  
  • Do your dishes by hand – this uses between 10 and 30 litres of water. A dishwasher uses between 40 and 75 litres of water per cycle.
  • Report leaking taps, sprayers and other devices to (021) 808 4666.

 For more information contact John de Wet at jdewet@sun.ac.za or 021 808 9422.