Ipswich City Council

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Background

Australia is the driest inhabited continent and has a highly variable climate. Surprisingly, it maintains one of the world's highest rates of water consumption per capita. Compounding this are some emerging trends...

Water - A Global Issue

It's not just us - water conservation and water issues touch the lives of many globally. While we grapple with shortages of water, other parts of the world confront challenges of lack of access to clean water. Water and water management issues are in the global spotlight and will remain topical both in the short and long term future.

Climate Change

It is generally agreed that Australia and the rest of the globe are experiencing faster than expected climate change. The Australian Bureau of Meteorology notes that since the middle of the 20th century, national temperatures have, on average, risen by approximately 1°C with increased occurrences of heatwaves and decreases in frosts and cold days. Rainfall patterns have also changed - the northwest has seen an increase in rainfall over the last 50 years while much of eastern Australia and the far southwest have experienced a decline.

It is predicted our country will become hotter and drier.

Ipswich - A Growing City

Ipswich City as has been identified as one of the key growth areas in South East Queensland, with expectations of the population more than doubling over the next 20 years. Effective water management and a water wise community will be essential for the future of our thriving city.

Given these factors, it is clear that water conservation needs to be integrated into the lifestyle and practices of our communities and businesses, with effective support from government at all levels.

Last Updated 3 Apr 2008 |

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