New publication makes the case for business to engage in water valuation

The World Business Council for Sustainable Development (WBCSD) launched a new publication that demonstrates the business case for companies to engage in water valuation.

Water availability is increasingly limited.

  • Globally, water resources are constant, but if current trends continue, water demand is predicted to increase by 55% worldwide between 2000 and 2050, with some industries increasing much more, such as manufacturing by 400% and electricity production by 140% (OECD, 2012).

Businesses can better inform management actions and limit wasteful practices by assessing the value of the water they use.

  • Water valuation can help companies maintain and enhance revenues, reduce costs, manage risks or enhance reputation.

The WBCSD publication

  • Reviews the different internal and external drivers for companies to value water
  • Details the different arguments for companies to engage in valuation
  • Highlights the different applications for water valuation in business decision-making.

This publication is a first response to Vision 2050, a WBCSD report that lays out a pathway leading to a world where 9 billion people live well, within the limits of the planet, by 2050 (WBCSD, 2010).

WBCSD 

ECOS Environmental Consultants Limited