We often take water for granted because it is seen as a renewable resource but freshwater, on which we all depend, is finite.  At current rates, it is predicted that by 2025 two-thirds of the world’s population will live in water-stressed conditions and long-term shortages pose a serious threat to human and natural life.

To meet increases in demand, either we have to use existing sources more efficiently or we have to find new sources of water.  However, building new reservoirs is expensive and can inflict significant damage on eco-systems and plant and animal life and water abstraction can be equally damaging, reducing flows in rivers, damaging wildlife habitats and adversely affecting water quality.

There are also clear business arguments for treating the management of water in the same way as the management of other resources, such as gas and electricity.  Sensible conservation and good management programmes can save companies considerable sums of money. Water use can cost a company as much as 1-2% of its turnover. For a company with an annual turnover of £2 million, £20,000 – £40,000 a year may be spent on water.  At sites where there have been no previous attempts to save water; you can usually achieve financial savings of up to 20% of water expenditure at little or no cost.

Forward looking businesses that take steps to address water conservation and make their efforts public can spread good practice and help to lead the way in their sector.  Risk Management Consultants can conduct a water efficiency audit for your organisation, which will help you to take a simple and systematic approach to managing your water usage effectively.  This will help you to achieve clear financial savings whilst doing your part for the environment.