Water Equity in Drought

Overview

It’s been more than 25 years since South Africa dismantled apartheid, and while political progress has occurred, the young democracy continues to face hurdles. In recent years, extreme drought pushed the country to the brink of disaster, and although rainfall finally mitigated the situation, persistent water shortages are now a part of daily life. This report how climate change and apartheid impact water access today. 

Videos

 Discussion Questions

1. What problems can you identify in this story? Are solutions presented?
2. In what way might this story be relevant in your community? 
3. The legacy of apartheid is seen in South Africa’s infrastructure which was only built to support the white minority population. Are there any historical inequalities still visible in your community?
4. How would a lack of water access impact your daily routine?
5. How does climate change compound issues of inequity?
6. When creating civil infrastructure, what ethical issues should engineers and city planners consider?
7. During water crises, restrictions like 2-minute showers are placed on water use. Should we be more efficient in our water use, even during normal times? Why or why not?

 Writing Prompt (250 Words) 

Can you think of another intersection of historic inequity with environmental issues? How does it compare to the situation in South Africa? Can lessons from South Africa be applied?