A University of Cape Town (UCT) project in Franschhoek is treating polluted Stiebeuel River water and reusing it to irrigate vegetable gardens, Cape {town} Etc reports.
The Water Hub, based at an abandoned wastewater treatment site, uses solar energy and nature-based filtration to clean about 36 000 litres of contaminated water a day. The system uses stones, sand, wetlands and biochar made from heat-treated wood, removing around 99% of toxins before the water is reused or returned to the river, according to The Guardian.
The system behind Franschhoek’s cleaner irrigation water
The river receives sewage, grey water, litter and other pollutants linked to inadequate sanitation, drainage and illegal dumping upstream in the Langrug informal settlement.
The treated water is used to irrigate crops including spinach, beetroot, onions and sweet potatoes. Around 3 000 litres is retained for food-producing gardens, while much of the remaining water returns to the river.
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The project also supports skills development. UCT doctoral researcher Emily Nicklin has studied the treatment systems, while community activist Sbongukuhle Siyengo has worked with residents and children to clean neglected areas and protect the river.
Young people, including Sanele Luwata, have gained practical skills in irrigation, crop cultivation and sustainable agriculture.
Emeritus Professor Kevin Winter, who leads the Water Hub, says South Africa needs to develop ‘African solutions to African problems’.
The Water Hub’s work shows how polluted water, community action and scientific research can be brought together to support food production and environmental restoration.
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Picture: @NewsTongueX / X
