Storing water in tanks poses a plethora of options, from plastic, steel, fibreglass, and
concrete, to wood. So what are some of the considerations, specifically in the present
drought conditions where anything will do?
Tank you very much!
C
lean drinking water is vital for both
health and well-being, while any
water source that is contaminated
runs the risk of being home to harmful
bacteria and viruses that can cause
waterborne diseases in humans.
In many countries, the quality of
available drinking water is compromised
and citizens are forced to rely on storage
techniques to ensure a supply as the
surging demand from both rural and
urban population and rising awareness
about consuming safe drinking water
are putting pressure on already strained
municipal water supplies to keep up with
the demand, while being hard-pressed
to ensure water conservation.
In the South African context, the
need for adequate on-site storage has
never been more predominant than
during the current drought. Hygienic
water storage, unaffected by ultraviolet
or light penetration, remains in high
demand. This is driving communities
in both rural and urban environments
to store water in whatever receptacle
is available, the most common being
plastic tanks.
The plastic age
Plastic water storage tanks are commonly
available in the local market, with the
annual production increasing and more
than doubling in the past 15 years. This
type of water tank is generally preferred
because it is cheaper, made of stronger
material, lightweight, and easier to move
than many other alternatives.
However, lack of adequate knowledge
and awareness around the toxicity
caused by the plastic and