South Africa is facing a worsening water crisis, with several regions experiencing
severe shortages. In Johannesburg, water supply interruptions have resulted from an
increasing population and ageing infrastructure, leading to economic strain and daily
disruptions. Durban’s eThekwini municipality is also grappling with an increasingly
erratic water supply, with some communities reportedly experiencing dry taps for
unprecedented periods. The Karoo region in the Northern Cape remains in the grip
of a prolonged drought, devastating local agriculture. These challenges are all part of
a larger national concern, with predictions indicating that South Africa will face a
water deficit of 17% by 2030.
As the crisis deepens, corporate South Africa has an urgent role to play. Businesses,
particularly those in industries reliant on stringent hygiene standards like hospitality,
healthcare, and food services, must adopt water-saving measures without
compromising cleanliness. "Water scarcity is a pressing concern, especially where
inconsistent supply and growing demand put pressure on local resources. That’s
why adopting water-efficient cleaning methods is essential," says Jeffrey Madkins,
Marketing Manager at Unilever Professional Southern Africa. "By implementing
resource-conscious sanitation protocols, businesses can still maintain strict hygiene
standards while significantly reducing water consumption."
Madkins provides the following advice to help businesses make a meaningful impact:
1. Harvest Rainwater for Cleaning
Collecting and storing rainwater is one of the most effective ways to reduce
reliance on municipal water. This harvested water can be used for flushing toilets,
washing floors and large surfaces in warehouses/factories, cleaning gutters and
even windows, significantly cutting overall water consumption.
2. Repurpose Greywater Where Possible
Water from basins, laundries and showers – known as greywater – can be reused
for non-hygiene-sensitive tasks such as cleaning driveways, watering gardens,
and washing outdoor equipment. While it’s not suitable for sanitising kitchens or
medical facilities, it can reduce the use of potable water in other cleaning
processes.
3. Invest in Water-Saving Cleaning Equipment
Modern cleaning technology now prioritises efficiency. For example, microfiber
cloths, high-performance scrubbers and low-flow pressure washers require
significantly less water while delivering the same, if not better, results. Smart
investments in this equipment not only save water but also improve long-term cost
efficiency with correct application.
4. Choose Cleaning Products That Require Less Water
Not all cleaning products are created equal. Opting for concentrated or pre-dosed
formulations minimises water use by reducing the need for excessive rinsing,
making cleaning processes more efficient and eco-friendly. For example, the
Handy Andy Professional range of Foodsafe cleaners is an excellent option as it
ready to use and the range requires no additional rinsing.
5. Train Staff in Water-Saving Practices
Employee awareness and training play a crucial role in conserving water. Simple
things – such as using the correct amount of cleaning solution, reporting leaking
taps, toilets and pipes, reducing water usage in kitchens, properly operating
appliances and following sustainable cleaning protocols – can all lead to
substantial reductions in daily consumption.
"By integrating water-efficient cleaning practices, businesses can reduce their
environmental footprint without compromising on cleanliness. These practical
changes not only drive sustainability but also contribute to cost savings, proving that
protecting the planet and our precious resources can align with improving the bottom
line," Madkins concludes.
For more information on Unilever Professional products and how they can support
your cleaning needs, visit https://www.unileverprofessional.co.za/ where you can
also sign up to receive regular tips and insights on professional cleaning.
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Sources
https://www.ft.com/content/a4ff34ce-117e-424e-ba9f-543307e6c387
https://www.esi-africa.com/industry-sectors/water/south-africa-ethekwini-municipality-will-only-resolve-
water-crisis-in-2025/
https://www.theguardian.com/environment/ng-interactive/2024/nov/23/disaster-is-about-caring-im-not-
selfish-any-more-this-is-climate-breakdown
https://thepost.co.za/sundayindependent/news/2024-05-05-sas-water-shortage-to-get-worse-in-2025/
Press Release on Behalf of:
Jeffrey Madkins
Marketing Manager: Unilever Professional
Disseminated by:
Thulisile Mhlongo
PR Account Executive: Say Watt
071 326 9830
About Unilever Professional
Unilever Professional is a trusted partner for businesses in South Africa, offering innovative
and effective cleaning and hygiene solutions. As part of the global Unilever family, Unilever
Professional leverages well-known brands like OMO, Sunlight, Domestos, and Handy Andy
to meet the needs of South African businesses across diverse industries. From hotels and
restaurants to healthcare facilities and office spaces, our products are designed to deliver
superior cleaning power, ensuring a better clean, better business.
Maintaining a safe and clean environment is crucial for a business’s success, Unilever
Professional provides tailored solutions that are not only effective but also sustainable. With
a strong commitment to environmentally friendly practices, our products help businesses
reduce their ecological footprint while upholding top-tier hygiene standards.
Unilever Professional goes beyond just providing products; we offer expert support to ensure
your business can maximise efficiency, reduce operational costs, and maintain an
exceptional level of cleanliness. Whether it’s ensuring spotless surfaces or a monthly deep
clean, Unilever Professional is dedicated to supporting South African businesses with
reliable, sustainable solutions that meet the highest standards.