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Bengaluru's new water conservation measure: Mini-STPs for independent homes
The Bengaluru Water Supply and Sewerage Board (BWSSB) is taking significant steps towards sustainable water management in the city. The board is considering a new policy that would mandate the installation of small-scale sewage treatment plants (STPs) in all upcoming independent houses.
This initiative aims to reduce water consumption and minimise the strain on the city's water resources. By implementing dual piping systems, new homes would be able to separate sewage from greywater. Greywater, generated from activities like washing dishes and vehicles, could then be treated in small-scale systems and reused for various purposes, including toilet flushing and gardening.
The BWSSB estimates that this measure could potentially reduce water consumption by 30-40%. By reusing treated greywater, residents can significantly reduce their reliance on potable water, which is a valuable and increasingly scarce resource.
In addition to promoting water conservation, BWSSB is also addressing the issue of water loss due to leakage and pilferage. The board is working on replacing old, inefficient pipelines with modern ones to minimise water loss. By implementing these measures, BWSSB aims to ensure a sustainable water supply for Bengaluru's growing population. (The Times of India)
Supreme Court stays NGT order against Ghaziabad local body
The Supreme Court recently intervened in a case involving a local body in Ghaziabad district. The National Green Tribunal (NGT) had ordered punitive action against the body due to a non-functional sewage treatment plant. However, the Supreme Court stayed the NGT's order.
The Supreme Court's order came after the local body argued that the NGT's decision was disproportionate and that the body had faced genuine technical and financial challenges in completing the plant. The local body also contended that it had limited authority in approving and establishing sewage treatment plants.
The Supreme Court, while staying the NGT's order, directed the local body to deposit a compensation amount of ₹23.7 lakh with the court. The court will now hear the case further and consider the legal questions raised by the local body.
The case highlights the complex interplay between environmental regulations and the practical challenges faced by local authorities. It also raises questions about the appropriate level of punishment for environmental violations and the role of judicial bodies in enforcing environmental laws. (Bar and Bench)
AP unveils elaborate water policy and infrastructure plans
Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu has outlined an ambitious water management plan for the state. A key component of this plan is a comprehensive water policy that aims to make Andhra Pradesh drought-free through interlinking rivers and efficient water conservation.
To accelerate the progress of the Polavaram project, the Chief Minister has set a deadline of March 2026 for the completion of the diaphragm wall construction. He has also directed officials to expedite land acquisition and rehabilitation processes for Phase-I of the project.
In addition to Polavaram, the Chief Minister has emphasised the importance of other key irrigation projects. These include increasing the capacity of the Handri-Neeva main canal, completing Phase-I of the Chintalapudi lift irrigation scheme, and linking the Godavari and Penna rivers.
The state government is actively seeking funds from various sources, including the World Bank, Japan International Cooperation Agency, and central government schemes, to support these crucial water infrastructure projects. (The Hindu)
Water crisis threatens global food security
A new report from the Global Commission on the Economics of Water (GCEW) warns of a looming water crisis that could severely impact global food production. By 2050, nearly half of the world's food production could be at risk due to declining water availability.
The report highlights the economic consequences of water scarcity, with high-income countries facing an average GDP drop of 8% and lower-income nations potentially experiencing a 15% decline. Climate change, unsustainable water practices, and unequal access to clean water are exacerbating the crisis.
To mitigate these challenges, the GCEW urges a global shift towards sustainable water management. This includes eliminating harmful subsidies, investing in water-saving technologies, and recognising water as a global common good.
Unless urgent action is taken, the water crisis could have far-reaching implications for food security, economic growth, and human well-being. (The New Indian Express)
High-performance buildings: A sustainable future
High-performance buildings are revolutionising the construction industry by offering a sustainable and cost-effective approach to building design and operation. These buildings are designed to minimise energy consumption, reduce carbon emissions, and improve occupant well-being.
Governments worldwide are increasingly recognising the importance of high-performance buildings in addressing climate change and urban challenges. To promote the adoption of high-performance buildings, governments are implementing a variety of policies and incentives. These include energy efficiency standards, building codes, tax incentives, and subsidies.
For instance, the European Union's Green Deal mandates energy-efficient building designs and retrofits, while India's National Action Plan on Climate Change promotes energy-efficient buildings through initiatives like the Energy Conservation Building Code (ECBC). These policies not only encourage sustainable construction practices but also create a conducive environment for the development of a green building industry.
High-performance buildings offer numerous benefits, including reduced energy consumption, lower operational costs, and improved indoor air quality. By adopting sustainable practices and incorporating energy-efficient technologies, high-performance buildings can significantly reduce their environmental impact.
To finance high-performance buildings, various financial mechanisms are available, including government subsidies, carbon credits, green bonds, and climate-focused funds. These financing options make it more affordable to build and operate high-performance buildings.
As the world transitions to a low-carbon future, high-performance buildings will play a crucial role in shaping a more sustainable and equitable world. By investing in energy-efficient and sustainable buildings, we can create a better future for generations to come. (The Hindu)
This is a roundup of important policy updates from October 16 to October 31, 2024. Read our news updates here