​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.