San Antonio Water System’s Commitment to Sustainable Water Management

Introduction

Over the past 25 years, the San Antonio Water System (SAWS) has secured new water supplies from seven different sources to support the city’s growth. In alignment with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 6 (Clean Water and Sanitation) and SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities), SAWS has implemented world-class water conservation programs to optimize water use and ensure sustainability.

Focus on Non-Revenue Water Reduction

SAWS has intensified efforts to address non-revenue water (NRW), also known as “water loss,” to maintain sustainable and affordable water services for future generations. This initiative supports SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production) by promoting efficient resource management.

Understanding Non-Revenue Water

• Non-revenue water refers to water that is produced or received but not billed to customers.
• It includes losses from main breaks and leaks.
• Authorized beneficial uses such as firefighting, hydrant flushing, pipe flushing for health and safety, and sewer system cleaning are also part of NRW.
• Apparent losses include unreported use, water theft, inaccurate meters, and data errors.

Challenges and Strategic Responses

Water loss due to aging infrastructure is a nationwide challenge affecting many U.S. cities. SAWS is at the forefront of addressing this issue through innovative strategies and technologies.

1. SAWS manages an extensive network of 8,000 miles of underground water pipes, making leak detection and repair complex and costly.
2. Efforts have been intensified in leak detection and repair programs.
3. Implementation of ConnectH2O electronic meters enhances the accuracy of customer water usage measurement.

Organizational Commitment and Goals

According to Jeff Haby, SAWS Vice President of Production, the Board of Trustees has prioritized the reduction of non-revenue water. The utility’s long-term Water Management Plan includes the following target:

• Reduce non-revenue water by 50% per connection by 2035.

SAWS has been actively working on this objective for over a decade and continues to explore promising new technologies to achieve it.

Conclusion and Further Information

SAWS’ comprehensive approach to water stewardship exemplifies commitment to the Sustainable Development Goals by ensuring sustainable water management, reducing waste, and promoting efficient use of resources. For more information about SAWS’ Non-Revenue Water Program, please visit saws.org/stewardship.

1. Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) Addressed or Connected

1. SDG 6: Clean Water and Sanitation
   • The article focuses on water supply, water conservation, and reducing water loss, directly relating to ensuring availability and sustainable management of water.
2. SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities
   • Managing aging water infrastructure and ensuring sustainable and affordable water services contributes to making cities inclusive, safe, resilient, and sustainable.
3. SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production
   • Water conservation programs and reducing non-revenue water reflect sustainable consumption and efficient use of resources.

2. Specific Targets Under Those SDGs Identified

1. Under SDG 6:
   • Target 6.4: Substantially increase water-use efficiency across all sectors to ensure sustainable withdrawals and supply of freshwater.
   • Target 6.3: Improve water quality by reducing pollution and minimizing release of hazardous chemicals and materials.
2. Under SDG 11:
   • Target 11.6: Reduce the adverse per capita environmental impact of cities, including by paying special attention to air quality and municipal and other waste management.
3. Under SDG 12:
   • Target 12.2: Achieve the sustainable management and efficient use of natural resources.

3. Indicators Mentioned or Implied to Measure Progress

1. Non-Revenue Water Reduction
   • Indicator: Percentage reduction of non-revenue water per connection (targeting a 50% reduction by 2035).
   • Measurement of water lost through leaks, main breaks, unauthorized use, and measurement inaccuracies.
2. Water Meter Accuracy
   • Indicator: Accuracy and reliability of customer water use measurement through new electronic meters (ConnectH2O).
3. Leak Detection and Repair Efforts
   • Indicator: Number or frequency of leak detections and repairs conducted.

4. Table of SDGs, Targets, and Indicators

Source: saws.org