Shayp Blog

Why don't we find International Water Laws regarding consumption in the legislation?

Written by Ana Pla Raga | Jan 14, 2022 1:41:00 PM

International Water Laws regarding consumption in buildings is a topic that has been widely discussed for many years. The issue of water scarcity, combined with the rising population levels, there is need to find ways to reduce your water consumption. Legislation should address this problem by regulating how much water can be used per day and month by any building.

Water is the essential resource for all living organisms on earth, yet it's one of the most limited resources. It's also a finite resource that cannot be renewed once consumed. It means that water consumption in buildings must be regulated by water law to ensure sustainable use and preservation of this precious natural resource. Yet, despite its importance, there are no regulations governing water consumption in buildings. Why?

1. Lack Of Awareness

Many people are not even aware of real time water consumption monitoring in buildings. They see water as an infinite resource that will always be available, so they don't see any need to monitor its usage. And until there's a general awareness of the issue, legislators will not feel compelled to act.

2. Lobbyists From the Construction Industry

The construction industry is a powerful lobby and has a lot of influence on lawmakers. Also, the construction industry relies heavily on water usage in buildings - both for residential and commercial construction. So these industries have no incentive to support legislation that would restrict water usage.

3. Complicated Bureaucracy

Creating legislation that regulates water consumption in buildings is a complex process. Many stakeholders are involved. Hence it isn't easy to get everyone on board. In addition, the cost of creating such legislation would be high and require a lot of funding by governmental bodies which are already in debt.

4. Uncertainties About Data

There is no reliable data for measuring water consumption in buildings or how much water can be saved if specific measures are taken. Without precise, scientific measurements, it's impossible to create a legal framework that carries weight and authority.

Even with exact metrics in hand, there is still the problem that every building is unique and will have different requirements for conservation based on its size, location, and function. This means that any laws governing water usage must be flexible enough not to tolerate exceptions.

5. The Lack of A "Water Czar"

There is no one in charge of water conservation in buildings. It's a complex and multi-disciplinary issue, so it's not surprising that no one has taken on the responsibility of leading the charge on this front. However, without a leader to spearhead this effort, it's unlikely that any real progress will be made.

6. Cultural Norms

Even if there were regulations governing water consumption in buildings, it's not clear that people would comply with them. There is a general attitude of "waste not, want not" in many parts of the world, and this would need to be changed for people to start conserving water.

It will take a lot of effort and concerted action to address these challenges and get legislation regulating water consumption in buildings on the books. But it's a crucial step in ensuring the sustainability of our planet and its resources.

So what can be done to overcome these obstacles and address the issue of water consumption in buildings?

1. Awareness Campaigns

Educating people about the importance of conserving water is critical. Schools and universities should teach international waters laws. Also, they should incorporate water conservation and waste water solutions into their curricula. In addition, governments should run public awareness campaigns. It will help change people's attitudes towards water and make them more aware of saving this precious resource.

2. Incentives For Industries

Government should give incentives to the construction industry and other industries that rely on water usage in buildings to reduce their consumption. It could be in tax breaks, subsidies, or other financial incentives.

3. Regulations Based on Data

Once reliable data is collected on water consumption in buildings, it can be used to create regulations that are specific to each building type and location. It will allow flexibility while still ensuring that water conservation is taken seriously; this will lower the number of water damaged buildings.

4. Appointing A "Water Czar."

As mentioned earlier, appointing someone to lead the charge on water conservation in buildings would be a step in the right direction. The person would be responsible for creating an action plan then turning it into legislation.

Additional recommendations include:

  • Engaging the public and other stakeholders in developing water-efficiency
    initiatives, such as private and governmental organizations, conservation groups, and advocacy groups.
  • Reassessing existing building codes to ensure proper shower water waste management systems are installed in new construction.
  • Implementing stricter operating standards on older commercial buildings.
  • Mitigating risk through increased education.

Can Water Law Help to Reduce Water Consumption?

The problem of water consumption in buildings is global, which means that it will take a concerted effort from the international community and international waters laws to address this issue. However, taking steps now can ensure that people are better prepared to cope with future scarcity and environmental problems.