The recommendations of the Ministry of the Environment in the context of the drought faced by the Republic of Moldova. Water suppliers could introduce ‘hourly delivery’
The Ministry of the Environment came on Wednesday, July 22, with several recommendations in the context of the severe drought that is attested in the Republic of Moldova. The authorities urge the population to contribute to water conservation and to consume rationally.
At the same time, the Ministry of the Environment recommends operators who provide the water supply service to review the delivery schedules and “if necessary to introduce hourly delivery” (the supply will be interrupted between 09:00 – 12:00 and 18:00- 21: 00 to restore the water reserve, in drought conditions).
It is also recommended to adjust the pressure in driving to the minimum optimal transport level, with the assurance of consumer deliveries.
According to the Ministry, “there are many possibilities to save water, and they all start from noi”, thus the general population is defined as:
- Wash your teeth, fruits, dishes, WITHOUT letting the water run unnecessarily
- Only use the dishwasher or washing machine when they are full
- Use dishes in the kitchen more rationally to wash less
- Thaw food in the refrigerator and not under running water
- Prepare the dishes in as little water as possible, this also helps to maintain the vitamins
- The water left over from washing fruits and vegetables can be used to water the flowers
- Shorten the time you shower by 2-3 min. and you will save up to 500 liters of water per month
- Make sure the toilet is not broken and the water is not running unnecessarily
- Insulate water pipes to avoid leaks or freezing
- While you wait for hot water to come to the tap, collect it to use in other activities
- Teach the children to turn off the tap properly and praise them when they manage to save water
- Avoid washing cars, sidewalks, filling pools, etc. in this activity.
“Agriculture is the basic sector of the Republic of Moldova, which ensures food security. In recent years, investments of hundreds of millions of lei have been made for the development of this strategic sector. Unfortunately, drought, floods and other climate changes dramatically affect the activity of farmers”, notes the Ministry of the Environment.
At the same time, compliance, some consequences can be avoided if we take care of natural water sources, with some important rules:
- Secure yourself with water reserves during periods when water resources are limited by filling water storage basins for irrigation.
- Irrigation should be done at night, when less water evaporates than during the day
- Prioritizing the irrigation of the most valuable crops in the critical stages of its development
- Orientation of water resources strictly towards plant roots
- Regular checking of the irrigation water distribution system to avoid uncontrolled leakage
And to prevent drought, some measures can be taken early:
- Accumulation of water from precipitation
- Creation of water reserves in the soil during late autumn – winter
- Covering the soil with a layer of plant debris, such as shredded twigs, which holds moisture in the soil
- Maintenance, rehabilitation and construction of water reservoirs for irrigation
- Plant smart, opt for drought tolerant plants
- Plant in spring and fall when water requirements are lower
Entrepreneurs could take a series of measures both as a responsibility to employees and to use water rationally:
- During this period, avoid using artesian wells, washing cars, etc.
- Water bills can be lower if you use water wisely
- Install faucets with dispensers, they reduce water consumption
- Make sure the faucets and toilet are not leaking
- If you use processed water in your business, ask yourself if there are ways to use water efficiently.
Water conservation can become an essential practice in the workplace, says the Ministry. Public and social institutions are asked to consider the following aspects:
- Make sure the faucets and toilet are not leaking
- Employees to use water rationally, STRICTLY when necessary
- Water conservation helps prevent pollution of local lakes, rivers and ponds
- Recommend to employees ways to save water and money, warning messages in public spaces regarding hydrological drought.
- During this period we avoid using artesian wells, watering lawns, washing cars