As a city, we lack natural resources. But Hong Kong's affluence means we seldom have shortages of anything. However, the abundant supply in water, food and energy has made us one of the most wasteful cities on the planet. From food waste in restaurants and supermarket chains to excessive energy use by shopping malls and outdoor billboards, evidence of wastage is everywhere. The latest example that puts us to shame is the water waste in our public swimming pools.
It is common sense that swimming pools use a lot of water. But that is not any reason to waste the precious resource. According to the city's first audit of water use at government amenities, up to six million litres of water is being used and lost at five pools every day - the equivalent of half an Olympic-sized pool. The Sha Tin Jockey Club swimming pool appears to be particularly wasteful. With a daily average of just 990 swimmers in the seven-pool complex, each uses 1,323 litres of water, compared with the 20 litres recommended by the Australian utility Sydney Water for its swimmers.
Assuming the findings by the Water Supplies Department are correct, the amount of water wasted is alarming. There is no reason why we have to splash out when swimmers elsewhere can adhere to better guidelines. The severe drought in the 1960s has become a distant memory for many ever since the government began buyikng water from the Dongjiang in Guangdong in the 1980s. Sadly, adequate water supply remains a challenge for many countries. It would be a shame if we bought water only to wash it down the drain. A better conservation approach is needed.