Episode I: Water

“The water and wastewater sector currently emits the same amount of greenhouse gases as the entire shipping sector. And this figure is set to more than double by 2040 as demand increases for scarce water supplies. At the same time however, the sector holds the key to changing all of this and has a vital role to play in enabling billions of people around the world to thrive.

To succeed the sector must take urgent, transformational steps to become net zero and resilient as quickly as possible. The time for business-as-usual approaches to water and wastewater management is over.”

“We’re optimistic about a decarbonized future as we’re witnessing water and wastewater utilities stepping up as trailblazers to reach net zero emissions. We’ve seen some utilities take big initial steps like switching to more efficient energy sources and capturing their greenhouse gas emissions. We’re also seeing water utilities use digital innovations – like converting to smart water meters to collect better data on water consumption and water conservation initiatives. The Earth’s climate is directly influenced by water. We’re excited about our opportunity to address climate change and the impact our sector can have on the race to zero.“

Learn more about Susan

“The race to zero emissions is one that will take collective effort and innovation, and working with water clients who approach this challenge with a sense of creativity and purpose is inspiring. They are demonstrating what is possible when we reframe the climate crisis and truly connect our communities towards a common goal.”

“Water utilities are embedded in nearly every community around the world. Imagine the impact we could have on some of the world’s biggest challenges including climate resilience and the race to zero, working with the communities we serve, if we continue to think differently and challenge the traditional role of the water sector.”

Learn more about Adam

"Having successfully closed the water loop, PUB plans to do the same for the carbon loop. We have mapped out a strategy to use clean energy and to reduce the energy consumption of PUB's water treatment processes, as we do our part in reducing carbon emissions."

“We see a compelling future where water utilities can play a key role in producing green hydrogen and leadership in the circular economy.”

“Bold actions are now required to address the critical situations we are facing; solutions are at hand now by leveraging the incredible possibilities that lie within the water-energy nexus.”