The scheme considers the entire lifecycle water use of companies, awarding the best-performing with Carbon Trust’s ‘internationally-recognised’ certification.

To help get the new certification off the ground, the Carbon Trust is calling for leading businesses to apply to the scheme.

Carbon Trust managing director Darran Messem said: “Companies that have been working hard to become more sustainable recognise the long term importance of getting a grip on the water use associated with their products. Understanding a full life cycle water footprint can help to focus efforts on reducing the most significant environmental impacts of products.

“But it also makes good business sense to highlight areas of unforeseen risk and cost-saving opportunity. We would encourage any organisations that are interested in finding out how they could become the first in their sector to achieve life cycle water footprint certification to get in touch.”

Water problems

The UN has projected that two out of every three people in the world will live in a region facing water stress by 2025.

“Businesses will be key to solving water challenges,” claims the Carbon Trust.

Agriculture accounts for more than 70% of total global freshwater use, which makes water a serious concern for any business whose products rely on an agricultural input. The manufacturing industry in particular is expected to see the most significant growth in water demand, with 400% expansion between 2000 and 2050.

The Carbon Trust already administers its prestigious Triple Standard certification for water, waste and carbon sustainability. AkzoNobel, Bentley and News UK have all earned the designation.

Brad Allen

Action inspires action. Stay ahead of the curve with sustainability and energy newsletters from edie

Subscribe