IDRA Global Connections | Fall 2023

Page 49

THE MARCH TO NET ZERO & WATER POSITIVE (NZ&W+) | REAL END USER EXPERIENCES By Mr. José Díaz-Caneja Water Business CEO, ACCIONA

Similar to other sustainability aspects such

companies are contributing more fresh water

as electrifying operations for decarbonization

to the environment than is consumed by their

or fostering diversity in gender and local

activities.

employment, the more efficient utilization of water is emerging as a crucial component of the

The example of water stewardship and

sustainability agenda for many of the world's

leadership from these organizations will provide

largest companies. Regardless of their business

a much-needed boost to improving the rational

activity or sector, and irrespective of the nature

and efficient use of water. This is increasingly

of their water use—be it a direct element in

crucial in today's context, as the impact of climate change is exacerbating water scarcity in numerous regions worldwide. Andalucía, the Spanish region hosting the IDRA summit on water and climate change, is grappling with this issue. In recent years, it has witnessed a significant decline in its groundwater and the water stored in its reservoirs. As an example of this positive movement regarding awareness of water scarcity and the significance of proper water management

productive activities, as seen in the mining

within the Mining industry, Freeport McMoran

industry, or a more indirect role as observed

last year used recycled water five times more

in some large technological companies—

than new fresh water. It achieved a Water Use

companies are now taking actions that not

Efficiency of 89% in 2022, which is defined

only aim to compensate for water consumption

as the total use of recycled and reused water

but also to have a regenerative impact by

divided by the total water utilization minus its

creating "new water." Through these initiatives,

treated discharged water.

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