Water Conservation Must Start in Transmission Lines: Loss-and-Leakage Rates Reach Up to 60%
In a statement issued for World Water Day on 22 March, the Turkish Steel Pipe and Profile Manufacturers Association (ÇEBİD) emphasized that water conservation should not be limited to individual measures alone, noting that real savings must begin in transmission lines.
The Steel Pipe and Profile Manufacturers Association (ÇEBID) marked World Water Day on 22 March with a statement emphasizing that water conservation should not be limited to individual measures alone, stressing that real savings must begin in transmission lines.
Turkey among countries experiencing water stress
World Water Day, first declared by the United Nations in 1993, aims to draw attention to the water crisis and access to safe water. Despite the years that have passed, approximately 2.1 billion people worldwide lack access to safe water today.
Turkey ranks among water-stressed countries with 1,519 cubic meters of water per capita. Population growth and drought risks linked to climate change are increasing the danger of water scarcity in the coming period.
"Every drop is now precious"
As water resources continue to decline, individual conservation measures are gaining importance. To use water more efficiently in daily life, measures such as turning off the tap while brushing teeth, shortening shower times, choosing water-saving equipment, and preventing leaks are recommended.
"20-60 percent of our water is lost to leakage"
ÇEBID Chairman Zafer Atabey stated that water losses have reached critical levels, saying:
"Between 20 and 60 percent of our water is lost due to leakage and theft. During this period of drought and water shortage, lossless water transmission and efficient use are of great importance."
Steel pipe infrastructure as a solution
Zafer Atabey, highlighting the importance of steel pipe systems in preventing infrastructure-related losses, noted that following leaks and ruptures experienced in various cities, renovations have significantly reduced water loss and theft rates.
"Atabey pointed out that because connections in steel pipe systems are made by welding, the risk of leakage is minimized, allowing water to be transported more safely."
Turkey holds strong position in production
Emphasizing Turkey's strong global position in steel pipe production, Atabey stated that with annual production of 4.7 million tons, the country ranks first in Europe and third in the world. Noting that approximately 45 percent of production is exported to more than 140 countries, Atabey said the sector provides approximately USD 2 billion in foreign currency earnings to the country's economy.
"Protecting our water is our responsibility to future generations"
Drawing attention to increasing drought and declining rainfall, Zafer Atabey noted that water losses have reached unacceptable levels, making the following assessment:
"Recognizing the value of the water we have, preventing its loss, and managing it sustainably are our responsibility to future generations. As a sector, we are working to fulfill this responsibility through long-lasting, durable, and safe steel pipe solutions."
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