South Africa faces formidable and unprecedented challenges in meeting the rising demand for potable water. Our available supplies of fresh water are decreasing due to extended droughts, deteriorating water quality, more stringent health-based regulations, and competing demands from a variety of users. Moreover, increased pollution of groundwater and surface water from a wide variety of industrial, municipal and agricultural sources has seriously tainted water quality.

In response to these water challenges, the Stellenbosch University Water Institute was established in 2010 to collaborate with government and industry. This multidisciplinary research enterprise across various SU faculties and departments draws on the fundamental and goal-directed research already undertaken by some of our most experienced scientists. It unites our microbiologists, polymer scientists, engineers, earth scientists, biochemists, aquaculture specialists, invasion biologists, soil scientists, conservationists, philosophers, legal minds and planners all towards one goal - to solve water related challenges, to provide technology transfer and to develop human resources.