How Water Waste Impacts Businesses and Institutions

How Water Waste Impacts Businesses and Institutions

Water waste represents a substantial financial concern for businesses. A 2020 global water report by the Carbon Disclosure Project highlighted that the potential loss of business value due to inaction on water risks could reach $301 billion. In contrast, the estimated cost of addressing these risks is approximately $55 billion, which is significantly lower—by about 80%—than the cost of inaction.

This underscores the importance of companies enhancing their water management practices and fostering innovation in water use. Water is often seen as an unlimited resource, but the reality is quite different. We’ll explore how water waste affects businesses, focusing on its costs and impacts in today’s world.

The Financial Costs of Water Waste

Water waste can have a substantial financial impact on businesses. According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), leaks can account for up to 14% of a company’s water use. This wasted water not only inflates water bills but also leads to higher energy costs associated with heating and pumping water. For some businesses, these costs can add up to thousands of dollars each year.

In addition to direct financial costs, water waste can also result in fines and penalties of up to $25,000 a day. Many cities and municipalities have regulations in place to limit water waste, and businesses that fail to comply can face hefty fines. By reducing water waste, businesses can avoid these unnecessary expenses and improve their bottom line.

The Environmental Impact of Water Waste

Beyond the financial implications, water waste also has a significant environmental impact. The more water businesses use, the greater the strain on local water sources. This can lead to depleted water levels, which can harm ecosystems and wildlife. Additionally, the energy required to treat and transport water contributes to greenhouse gas emissions, further exacerbating climate change.

The Importance of Sustainability in Business

Sustainability is no longer just a buzzword—it’s a business imperative. Consumers are increasingly concerned about environmental issues, and businesses that fail to address these concerns risk losing customers and damaging their reputation. By implementing water-saving measures, including municipalities, universities, health-care facilities, institutions, can demonstrate their commitment to sustainability and appeal to environmentally conscious consumers.

How Businesses Can Conserve Water

There are many simple steps that businesses can take to reduce water waste. Installing water-efficient fixtures, fixing leaks promptly, and implementing water recycling systems are all effective ways to conserve water. Additionally, educating employees about the importance of water conservation and encouraging them to adopt water-saving practices can help businesses further reduce their water use. Fixing easily corrected water leaks can save businesses about 10% on their average water bills.

How Technology Can Help Avoid Millions in Damages

Advancements in technology have made it easier than ever for businesses and institutions to monitor and manage water use. Smart meters, for example, can provide real-time data on water consumption, allowing businesses to identify and address leaks quickly. Similarly, infrastructure mapping technology such as Inframappa, especially when coupled with sensors, can help businesses track their water use and quickly identify water leaks. Inframappa also helps identify valve locations to provide guidance on how to stop the flow in an emergency.

Inframappa helps businesses and institutions track their water usage and water leaks thanks to the latest technology. It also helps save millions of dollars in damages to universities, community colleges, K-12 schools, healthcare facilities, and more. To learn more about Inframappa’s innovative solutions, book a time here for a free consultation.