The European Environment Agency estimates that around one third of the EU territory is exposed to water stress conditions, either permanently or temporarily. Research also indicates that the manufacturing industry is the largest water user in northern Europe. As such, it is imperative that industrial businesses look to reduce water consumption as a matter of urgency; but where to begin?
The answer lies in Veolia Water Technologies' innovative solution: the Global Water Audit, a pivotal tool for maximising water efficiency and paving the way for sustainable water practices.
How does it work?
Every company operates with its own unique set of circumstances - from production practices to regulatory constraints – so understanding every aspect of the water cycle on-site is essential. Our Global Water Audit provides an in-depth 360° evaluation to reveal the potential for water reuse and help guide the selection of the most suitable water treatment technologies, tailored to the site's objectives.
At the heart of this indispensable process lies the concept of water mapping. By meticulously examining water flows, volumes, seasonal variations and usage patterns, water mapping can provide companies with invaluable insights. These can be used to pinpoint areas of excessive consumption, identify opportunities for optimisation and assess the compatibility of various water reuse applications.
Specifically, a thorough Global Water Audit will:
- identify water flows, rates and volumes - including seasonal fluctuations
- quantify water usage for each production stage and purpose
- characterise identified flows in terms of quality and pollutant content
- identify anomalies that contribute to water wastage
- evaluate the potential for process optimisation to reduce water consumption e.g. optimising washing times or transitioning to more water-efficient equipment
- assess the process water and wastewater flows with potential for reuse
- determine which industrial processes can feasibly integrate reclaimed water
- understand the regulatory framework governing water usage on-site.
What can an audit achieve?
Collectively these steps can help you to ensure and optimise the quantity and quality of water being used on your site and help to generate value from your wastewater. In turn, the optimisation of plant performance and water usage can also help to cut maintenance costs, minimise chemical consumption and ensure ongoing compliance with local regulations. Finally – and most crucially - cutting water usage can reduce your company’s environmental footprint and enhance any CSR policies or ESG goals.
As water scarcity concerns escalate, it is the ideal time for companies to rethink their approach to water efficiency. Through a comprehensive site audit, businesses can gain clarity, identify opportunities for optimisation and lay the foundation for sustainable water management practices going forward. It's crucial to reduce water consumption and pave the way for a more water-resilient future.
🔗For more information about our Global Water Audit services or to get in touch with a member of our expert team, please click here.
