Cleanzine: your weekly cleaning and hygiene industry newsletter 18th April 2024 Issue no. 1110
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Will demand for water outstrip supply by 2030?
A study published in late October 2012 of water executives from around the world finds that nearly 40% of the executives questioned believe demand for water is "highly likely" to outstrip supply by 2030.
Most of the other respondents predict the risk is "moderately likely."
The study was conducted by The Economist magazine's Economist Intelligence Unit and involved 244 senior water utility executives in 10 different countries: Australia, Brazil, Canada, China, France, India, Russia, Spain, the UK, and the US.
Among the reasons cited in the survey for the potential water shortage include the following:
* 45% note it is the result of "wasteful" consumer behavior
* 33% believe tariffs (taxes and fees on water) are too low to stimulate greater investment
* 41% cite a lack of capital in developing countries
* 34% attribute it to worries about climate change
The executives appear divided when it comes to the cost of water. Nearly half say pricing structures, such as charging more for water, need to be considered to encourage conservation.
Nearly 40% disagree and believe the cost of water should be held down to ensure "fair access".
"The report also credits new technologies and innovations which are helping to reduce water consumption and use water more efficiently," says Klaus Reichardt, CEO and founder of Waterless Co. "However, it also indicates more must be done not only by water users, but water utilities as well."
Finally, a similar study conducted by Ceres, which helps mobilise entrepreneurs to invest in sustainable businesses, finds that 27% of the companies it surveyed believe there is a connection between the risk of water shortages and climate change-up from 10% just three years ago.
Klaus Reichardt founded Waterless Co, a manufacturer of No-Flush Urinals, in 1991 with the goal of establishing a new market segment in the plumbing fixture industry with water conservation in mind. He is a frequent writer and presenter, discussing water conservation issues.
E: [email protected]
W: www.waterless.com
15th November 2012