In 2006 it was reported that cities such as Phoenix and Tucson had policies in place to reduce water consumption but Las Vegas, with its thirsty golf courses and evaporating fountains, did little to minimise its per capita consumption that was more than double that of the other desert cities. Three years later come reports that the other gambling hub, Macau, is in imminent danger of facing water rationing and has done little to prepare itself.

The rapid growth in Las Vegas may have reversed in recent months but Macau continues in growth mode as water reservoirs in China dry up. Hong Kong, like Phoenix and Tucson, has planned ahead and last year signed a deal with Guandong province to guarantee its water supplies even under drought conditions. Huge areas of southern China are suffering from drought and fresh water is becoming scarce following years of river pollution, illegal dumping and rapid urban expansion.

According to a report in The Times, Macau could have only a 10-day supply of fresh water left. The luxury hotels and water features that grace Macau’s casino industry face an uncertain future if drinking water has to be rationed. The news of the looming problem might affect Las Vegas Sands’ prospects of raising nearly US$4 billion on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange to resume construction in Macau. With the threat of non-essential water supplies being cut off within days, Macau casino operators and the authorities now need workable contingency plans far more than Las Vegas three years ago. (E-11.10.09)

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