Water Accounting

Water is an essential resource for human life, but its availability is limited. Therefore, it is crucial for organizations to measure and report their water use and impacts on water resources. This blog will outline the process of measuring and reporting an organization's water use and impacts on water resources, along with some best practices to improve the accuracy and reliability of the data.

  1. Define the scope and boundaries: The first step is to define the scope and boundaries of the water measurement and reporting. This includes identifying the water sources, uses, and impacts within the organization's operations and supply chain. The scope should cover all significant water-related activities, such as direct water use, water withdrawals, and wastewater discharges.

  2. Identify the data sources: Once the scope and boundaries are defined, the next step is to identify the data sources. This includes measuring water use and quality data from various sources, such as meter readings, bills, and permits. Data should also be collected on water quality parameters, such as pH, dissolved oxygen, and total suspended solids, to assess the impacts on water resources.

  3. Establish measurement protocols: To ensure accuracy and consistency, organizations should establish measurement protocols for each water source and use. This includes specifying the measurement units, frequency, and methods. The measurement protocols should be aligned with recognized standards, such as the ISO 14046:2014 Water Footprint standard or the Global Reporting Initiative's (GRI) Sustainability Reporting Standards.

  4. Collect and analyze data: Once the measurement protocols are established, data collection can begin. Organizations should collect data regularly and analyze it to identify trends and opportunities for improvement. This analysis can also help to identify areas of high water use and impacts on water resources.

  5. Report the results: Once the data is collected and analyzed, organizations should report the results to stakeholders. This includes internal reporting to management and external reporting to customers, investors, and regulatory agencies. The reporting should be transparent and accurate, using recognized reporting frameworks such as the GRI Standards, the CDP Water Disclosure, or the Dow Jones Sustainability Index.

  6. Identify improvement opportunities: Based on the analysis of the data and reporting, organizations should identify opportunities for improvement. This includes identifying areas of high water use and developing strategies to reduce water consumption, improve water quality, and mitigate impacts on water resources. Organizations should also engage with stakeholders to identify opportunities for collaboration to improve water management.

In conclusion, measuring and reporting an organization's water use and impacts on water resources is crucial for sustainable water management. The process involves defining the scope and boundaries, identifying data sources, establishing measurement protocols, collecting and analyzing data, reporting the results, and identifying improvement opportunities. By following these best practices, organizations can improve the accuracy and reliability of their water data and make informed decisions to improve water management and sustainability.