Dr Mayur J Kapadia, former AGM-QC, GNFC Ltd
It is needless to say that scarce and polluted water, that too, with unequal access has raised tensions among countries and communities. So, water can be a critical factor for stability of the world. Aptly chosen theme for World Water Day 2024 – ‘Water for Peace’ – can be supported by appropriate actions of all major stake holders of water – Agriculture, Industry and Domestic consumers.
Though there are varying estimates (8-14%), it is clear that industrial use of water is not negligible, which will continue to grow further. It is known to industries that though no one of them owns water, they all rely upon it heavily! Water is a shared resource, so water risks are also shared risks!
To begin with the stewardship, industries need to disclose their water use to bring about a culture of decision making that is based on environmental costs. Use of water risk mapping tools can help in finding solutions for water risks. In collaboration of other stake holders, industries should develop long term water security plans by analysing available water resources, usage pattern, future demand and community expectations. Industries should strength collective efforts and ensure water availability in culturally and socially equitable manner, which are also environmentally sustainable and economically achievable.
