ABSTRACT
ABSTRACT: In the last decade the water supply needs for drinking and industrial purposes have increased remarkably in the Cape Municipality, requiring the exploitation of groundwater as a consequence of the reduced quantity of surface water resources. Monitoring has detected elevated levels of chlorides, nitrates, fluorides, and metals. This paper focuses on conceptualising the dominant spatial trends of essentially non-point pollution and identifying the main controlling factors within the Cape Flats. The groundwater pollution trends and source identification are all emphasised. In considering the Cape Flats aquifer as a water resource, these factors are important. Subsequent to point source identification and the various non-point or diffuse sources of pollution, the need for protection zoning in the wellfields of the Cape Flats aquifer has also been highlighted.
