·  Bridgetown, Barbados

The Caribbean’s independent wire service since 1976.

Subscribe

APUA on drive to raise water conservation amid low rainfall

2 min read

ST. JOHN’S, Antigua, Apr 16, CMC – The Antigua Public Utilities Authority (APUA) as launched a nationwide public education initiative it says is designed to raise awareness and inspire action on the importance of water conservation in a country long challenged by water scarcity where low rainfall and growing demand continue to place pressure on supply.

The APUA said that the campaign entitled “Water Works Wonders! Every Drop Counts! Preserve It!,” complements its ongoing investments in expanding the water production and distribution network to provide potable water across Antigua and Barbuda.

It said that the campaign will be launched across multiple platforms, including television, radio, social media, print, and digital channels and at its core,  is a vibrant mix of educational and entertaining content that aims to resonate with audiences of all ages.

“We understand the frustration many of our customers feel when it comes to the reliability of water,” said John Bradshaw, APUA’s chief executive officer.

“We want to assure the residents of Antigua and Barbuda that we are working tirelessly to improve the water supply. Ultimately, our goal is not just reliability, but long-term sustainability. At the same time, we are calling on everyone to be more water-conscious in their daily lives, and to take personal responsibility by storing an adequate supply in the event of service disruptions,”  Bradshaw added.

APUA said that to date it has invested millions (One EC dollar=US$0.37 cents)  into expanding its reverse osmosis (RO) network despite the high operational costs. It said in  addition to upgrading RO plants, the Authority is advancing critical infrastructure projects, including increasing storage capacity, replacing aging mainlines, and implementing smart meters to improve billing efficiency and accuracy.

“We remain committed to doing our part, but lasting success depends on a collective effort. Every drop saved helps reduce pressure on the system. This campaign is more than just raising awareness, it’s a call to action,”  Bradshaw said.

The APUA said that the campaign will  include two animated characters, Piper and Dewey Waterson, using humor, heart, and relatable storytelling to deliver key conservation messages in an engaging and memorable way, engaging infographics and water-saving tips shared via social media, newspapers, and billboards and staff-led video segments showcasing APUA employees sharing their personal water-saving habits.

CMC/ad/ir/2025