Water management in the South African mining sector: the role of climate stress

Abstract

Water including both abundance and scarcity are critical issues worldwide. Concerns are escalating across the globe as many nations are struggling to secure sufficient water (CDP, 2013). Water shortages and periods of abundance could be triggered by several factors either due to physical conditions (rainfall patterns, evaporation, and temperature) or management capacities (policies, regulation, maintenance and monitoring) (Faramarzi et al., 2013). Furthermore the rate at which environmental, social, economic and political systems are continuously shifting has further complicated this issue. Factors, such as overpopulation, inadequate governance, rapid industrial development, intensive agricultural farming and extreme weather conditions all have the potential to adversely influence existing water scarcity (Faramarzi et al., 2013). Similar to many developing countries, South Africa faces the predicament of sustaining growing populations and industrial developments whilst preserving the ecosystem (DEA, 2013). The country is particularly vulnerable to periods of excess and water scarcity due to its distinctive climatic conditions. South Africa is characterised by exceedingly variable to low rainfall patterns, decreased humidity and high air temperatures (Ziervogel et al., 2014). The combination of these climatic conditions causes high levels of evaporation resulting in reduced water availability (Ziervogel et al., 2014). Climate alone does not influence water supply, as water conditions are impeded by various socioeconomic challenges. The severity of water scarcity, for example, is further compounded by rising water demands and declining water quality within the country (DEA, 2013). Water is essential for several processes across various industries (including health care, pharmaceuticals, energy, retail, construction agriculture, manufacturing, food and beverages) all of which contribute towards a thriving economy (DEA, 2013). Therefore the impacts of water scarcity and abundance (for example, extreme flooding) could likely threaten all water-dependent industries, the consequence of which would be devastating throughout the country. [No abstract provided. Information taken from introduction]