South Africa’s water is under pressure. By using it more wisely today, we can secure a sustainable future for communities, the economy, and the environment.
It’s time to act. From homes to industries, from classrooms to communities, every effort counts. Together, we can become a WaterWise Nation, where what we do today sustains tomorrow. Join the movement. Make your move.
The Water Research Commission (WRC) is South Africa’s leading institution dedicated to advancing water research, innovation, and sustainable management. As the custodian of the A WaterWise Nation campaign, the WRC drives collaboration, education, and action to build a water-secure future for all South Africans.

Leaky taps, pipes, and toilets waste thousands of litres daily. Prioritise maintenance and leak detection.

Install rainwater tanks to reduce reliance on municipal supply and irrigate responsibly.

Install water meters to track and manage water use, because what gets measured gets managed.

Refit taps, showers, toilets, and irrigation with smart tech to cut water use at the source.

Integrate water-saving lessons into classrooms, workplace training, and community events. Awareness drives action.

Use water from baths, sinks, or washing machines (with proper filtration) to water gardens or flush toilets, at home, on farms, or in schools.

Industries and farms should review and redesign systems for water efficiency, like closed-loop cooling, drip irrigation, and recycling.

Educators, business leaders, and community influencers should model water-wise habits and share success stories to inspire collective change.
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