Living in a developing country such as Jamaica has its share of challenges which can often lead to disruption and displeasure for its citizens. One perennial problem that perturbs us whenever there is a prolonged drought is the scarcity of piped water for everyday use.

It seems that every year we experience progressively worse conditions with the country’s declining rainfall levels. Whether we are suffering from the effects of global warming or the removal of trees needed to boost the watershed areas, something is drastically wrong in the ‘land of wood and water.’

Money down the drain

Many households and businesses are crippled by the lack of this precious commodity. Some of the issues affecting our productivity include: employees who are late or absent from work due to their search for water; lost revenue for businesses that depend on water; and money diverted into purchasing potable water.

While I acknowledge that other countries are also suffering from the results of climate change, I question our national response to the water crisis. Praying for rain may be our standard answer, but I would like to see more permanent solutions to address our dwindling water resources. Continue reading Surviving In a Time of Scarcity →