LEAD environment and community development official at the JN Foundation Omar Wright has called for a concerted effort to be made for a balance between sustainable water management and socio-economic development for the nation’s future resilience.

Wright has warned that without immediate action Jamaica’s precious natural resources and ecosystems are at risk of irreversible damage, threatening both environmental stability and socio-economic well-being.

“We [the JN Foundation] had a water summit in 2021, and we called on the Government of Jamaica to set a minimum standard to ensure that every housing development is outfitted with water-efficient features and fittings. We are still calling and advocating for this,” said Wright while addressing a recent meeting of the Rotary Club of Trafalgar New Heights.

In a presentation dubbed ‘Navigating the waters: the intersection of water management and environmental conservation’, Wright said there is a pressing need for collaboration among all stakeholders.

“Recognising the interconnectedness of water resources with all aspects of life, persons are urged to set aside differences and work towards a common goal, safeguarding Jamaica’s water for generations to come.

“It is important that the Government, policymakers, businesses, and communities work together for a resilient future. If we don’t manage our water resources carefully, we will see the side of humanity that will be plunged into [water] war,” added Wright.

Jamaica, like many other countries, is grappling with the repercussions of climate change, population growth, and unsustainable practices that strain its water resources.

From diminishing water supplies to degraded ecosystems, the signs of stress are evident. However, amidst these challenges, Wright said there is an opportunity for transformation.

“We have to ensure that we are managing the water resources in such a way that future generations will have access to water and we can indeed be the land of wood and water,” he said.

Wright urged members of the Rotary Club of Trafalgar New Heights to advocate for water conservation initiatives.

“Lend your voice and support to entities, institutions, and initiatives that are pushing for conservation of the environment. Find something that you are passionate about in the environmental sphere and lend your support,” said Wright.

He also encouraged businesses to adopt water-efficient technologies and practices not only as a means of reducing operational costs but as a commitment to corporate social responsibility.

Wright also urged communities to embrace water-saving habits and participate in local conservation efforts, recognising their role as custodians of Jamaica’s water resources.

The call for Jamaicans to do more to conserve water has been growing in recent weeks as the island faces a severe drought.

Last week Leanne Spence, co-founder and operator of water conservation company Instant-Save Jamaica Limited, argued that if residents of Kingston and St Andrew save 10 per cent of water used daily it would be enough to surpass the capacity of the Mona Reservoir, which holds 809 million gallons.

“It is really important that we look at strategies to be better able to manage our water resources,” Spence told a public forum put on by The University of the West Indies, Mona, last Wednesday.

Speaking during the event titled Down to the Last Drop: Tackling Jamaica’s Water Woes, Spence said while it is a known fact that Jamaica is experiencing scarcity, often as a result of inadequate distribution and aged infrastructure, Jamaicans should seek ways to help ensure water security.

Spence said Instant-Save, through an efficiency-first approach called Demand Side Management, has assisted clients to save “millions of gallons of water”. She stated that “water efficiency and conservation can be a new water source as well”.

Demand Side Management is a strategic toolbox which looks at behaviour change, efficient technologies, and financial incentives to promote efficient water use and curb consumption.