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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