18
FEATURES
In terms of sustainability, South Africa can adopt the wide range of sustainability products and systems available, such as: 1. Rainwater harvesting 2. Filtration systems to make water safe and potable 3. Boreholes 4. Underground water / storm water management 5. Recycled waste, where mini wastewater treatment plants are installed on properties
6. Water-efficient products like taps, mixers and shower heads
7. Solar-powered geysers and heat pumps
Steve Johnson | Pexels. com
“ Plumbers shouldn’ t make things work. It should work according to the proper design of the whole system. If plumbers are self-regulating in terms of compliance, creating an industry in which everybody insists on the minimum standard being the correct way and not cutting corners, then there may not be so much competition,” concludes Gordon. PA
Reference: 1. National State of Water Report 2023-Executive Summary 1. pdf
Contaminated water can cause cholera, typhoid and hepatitis.
“ There are people who work better with their hands than anything else, and that’ s who should be targeted to have a desire to become qualified plumbers.”
Skills shortage due to lack of fully-qualified plumbers
The public is left with contaminated water and unsafe plumbing installations, placing their health at risk
Unqualified people doing plumbing work choose non-compliant products because they are cheaper
The vicious circle.
Noncompliant products, incorrect installation and maintenance, cause water wastage and water contamination
www. plumbingafrica. co. za @ plumbingonline @ plumbingonline @ PlumbingAfricaOnline March 2026 Volume 32 I Number 01