WATER

Water serves a variety of crucial functions during events. It is a requirement for health and wellbeing to have clean drinking water and adequate sanitation, but water also can be used as dust control, for ballasts or as part of event attractions, such as water features. Due to climate change, water scarcity is becoming a more urgent issue even in countries which have previously been unaffected by drought. At the same time, average summer temperatures are increasing annually, which coincides with the peak of the festival season, increasing the demand for clean drinking water to ensure staff, volunteers, performers and the public remain safe and hydrated.

Organisers must ensure there is a clear vision for the procurement, management and disposal of water associated with their events. Poor water management can contribute to water insecurity and result in a waste of resources, high costs, and pollution of the water environment and soil surrounding the site. Additionally, the overuse or unnecessary wastage of water, can have significant social repercussions if it means that water provisions elsewhere are negatively impacted.

Control of wastewater is equally important in all areas. Mismanaged wastewater can cause flooding and health issues, and can also include pollutants such as oils, sewage and chemicals, which can have a detrimental impact on the receiving environment. Polluted wastewater can create gaseous emissions, and treatment can be energy intensive, expensive and often requires the use of toxic chemicals. The choice of wastewater & sewage treatment method can also have an impact through transportation emissions.

Prevention is key - by prohibiting the use of toxic chemicals onsite and by using waterless or dry toilet systems, the production of harmful wastewater can be dramatically reduced. Additionally, wastewater that is created can often be reused before it is disposed of. Best practice for wastewater and sewage management involves systems that use natural treatment methods (such as plants) to clean the wastewater and kill pathogens, alongside collecting and retaining important nutrients.