Earth is covered by 70 percent of water but only 2.5 percent of drinking water.
Of that water, a large quantity of that water is used by the agricultural industry daily. This is alarming because that water is also used by wildlife, people and businesses.
Although the agricultural industry produces products which are beneficial to society, it still has a negative impact on the environment. The industry needs to find ways to reduce the amount of water it uses, as the pressure on water systems will increase over the years.
Today, it would be in farm owners’ best interests to be one step ahead. An effective way of doing that is by having a desalination plant to access whenever you need it. There are several water treatment companies in South Africa, which can assist by planting water treatment plants and helping businesses gain access to desalination plants.
Read below to find out the benefits of desalination plants in agricultural industries:
One of the most important benefits of desalination is that it will provide communities with potable drinking water. And because of the rise in population and industries, water has become a scarce resource for businesses needing water to operate. Mostly because this clean, drinking resource is reserved for drinking water and not for business production.
Another impact of water scarcity is contamination. Because of the amount of water-borne pollutants, a lot of water cannot be used. Without access to clean water, agricultural businesses will suffer; which, in turn, affects production. If large volumes of food production are affected, living costs will rise significantly, affecting businesses and consumers.
This is why desalination is beneficial for agriculture. To gain access to a treatment plant, you need to hire a water purification company. Purification companies specialise in removing the salt and minerals found in seawater, allowing your farm to access a reliable source.
By having access to a desalination plant, the agricultural industry can take pressure off the city’s water. Since the population in South Africa is rising, it has placed a strain on municipal services. Companies are being fined for their excessive consumption, and consumers’ usage is being monitored. Desalinated water is a feasible alternative for farmers, as the water can be used to grow fresh fruits and vegetables, and for livestock drinking.
Desalination is safe to use in agriculture. The process refers to the removal of salt minerals from seawater, making it possible for farm owners to use more water on irrigation, pesticides and fertiliser applications. Famers can rest assured knowing that they aren’t, in no way, harming their livestock or crops. And that they can continue producing fresh products.
There is a range of water sources available such as lakes, dams and streams. However, we forget that habitats are living in those lakes and streams that need that water to survive, just as much as we do. By using seawater desalination as your main source of water, your business isn’t violating any environmental laws or endangering any species.
It is beneficial for you and your farm to have a backup plan in the event of a drought. Farm owners have no control of the climate and the environment, and this is why it is important that you have a plan B in place, to save your farm when the need arises.
Not having a backup plan will affect your consumers and employees. When your farm suffers, so do your employees and consumers. Work will become scarce, and the prices will rise significantly. To ensure nothing leads to this, make sure you have a solution in place. Having a plan will save your farm during a crisis. You will also have a competitive advantage.
Should there be any climate issues in your area, neighbouring farms will be affected too. But if you have access to desalinated water, your farm will still be able to operate efficiently.
With access to the latest technological advances, it is easier for industries to grow under climate and resource challenges. It is always beneficial for industries to find new and effective ways to continue with their business without harming the environment.
