As Bali’s construction industry continues to evolve, so does the need to address the challenges of water scarcity. Many areas face limited water supplies, making sustainable building practices more crucial than ever. This guide explores practical steps to reduce water usage and even achieve self-sufficiency.

Understanding the Problem

Many regions in Bali, especially those on higher limestone areas, experience rapid water drainage. This, coupled with deforestation, results in very dry conditions. Historically, communities relied on government water supply pipes, but these are often unreliable, leading to dependence on expensive and often polluted water truck deliveries.

Strategies for Water Conservation

Here are several strategies you can employ to reduce water consumption and ensure a more sustainable build:

• Install a Bore: While challenging, installing a bore could be an option. The porous nature of coral stone in some regions means that bores may need to be very deep, up to 150 meters, requiring a powerful and costly submersible pump. It’s essential to work with experienced drillers to avoid issues such as a bent bore hole.
• Harvest Rainwater: Implementing rainwater harvesting systems is an excellent way to collect and store water. Consider installing large water tanks and guttering to collect rainwater from the roof. If constructing a new building, integrating a large capacity tank into the foundations can store significant amounts of water. In some regions of the world, large concrete water tanks are able to provide water for many families throughout the year.
• Reduce Water Usage: Minimizing water consumption is vital. Start by identifying and repairing any leaks.
  • Check for Leaks: If your water pump runs continuously, you likely have a significant leak. If it switches on and off, it’s a sign of a small leak. Check toilets and taps first, and if the problem persists, contact a professional.
  • Monitor Water Usage: Track your daily water consumption. Reduce usage to a sustainable level.
  • Recycle Grey Water: Reuse water from showers and washing machines for irrigating gardens, using drip feed watering systems to ensure efficient use.
  • Consider Hydroponics: Hydroponic planting uses significantly less water compared to traditional soil gardening, allowing for lush vegetation with minimal water use.
• Minimize Backwashing: Be mindful of backwashing from water filters, reverse osmosis machines, swimming pool sand filters, and water softeners, as this can waste significant water. Consider directing backwash water into a tank for garden use.

Lifestyle Changes for Water Conservation

Beyond technical solutions, lifestyle adjustments can make a significant impact:

• Reconsider Swimming Pools: Swimming pools are a significant water waster, and eliminating them can conserve substantial amounts of water.
• Install Low-Flow Fixtures: Use low-usage showerheads and toilet cisterns to reduce water consumption.
• Adapt Landscaping: Replace water-intensive gardens with dry climate alternatives.
• Change Habits: When cleaning, use a brush instead of a hose, and wash your car at a commercial carwash, rather than at home.

Conclusion

By implementing these strategies, we can significantly reduce water consumption and move towards self-sufficiency in areas with limited water supplies. Adopting sustainable building practices and mindful water usage is essential for ensuring a resilient and eco-friendly future in Bali.