Water Footprint Inventory

Water is an essential natural resource. Driven by growing water demand, increasing water scarcity in many areas and degradation of water quality, the issue of water use and management has become increasingly important to the global debate on sustainability. Increased global competition for water represents both risks and opportunities for businesses. Definition A water footprint inventory is a solution to better understand water-related impacts. It addresses potential environmental impacts related to water and associated with a product, process or organization. It must include an assessment phase that follows the water footprint inventory. A water footprint inventory study is not a water footprint. Rather, a water footprint inventory is the compilation and quantification of inputs and outputs related to water for products, processes or organizations as defined in the goal and scope of the study. Benefits A water footprint study aims to understand and evaluate the magnitude and significance of potential environmental impacts related to water used by or within a product, process or organization. For many businesses, water stewardship may be necessary to obtain a license to operate. It can also be leveraged to effectively manage brand and reputation, ensure business continuity or drive innovation.