@Risk

Water. We take it for granted. But, according to a new global opinion poll conducted by GlobeScan and SustainAbility, over the next decade, virtually every industry in the world will need to adjust strategic planning, production practices and business models because of increasing competition for this essential resource.

More than 1,200 sustainability experts from more than 80 countries participated in the Sustainability Survey Poll on Water, and the results show that these leaders think multi-faceted engagement with water will be required to effectively manage businesses and communities in the future. For instance, in an era of water scarcity, new business practices will need to stress water conservation and efficiency, ecosystem protection, public education and engagement. Companies also will need to anticipate market pressure to appropriately price water. (more…)

It’s becoming more and more common for me to hear companies talk about water “footprints” and other water concerns, so I’m happy to report that earlier this month, the World Resources Institute (WRI), in partnership with General Electric and Goldman Sachs, launched an initiative to develop a Water Index, a standardized assessment tool  that  I believe will go a long way to help corporations identify and mitigate their water-related risks.

According to WRI, the Index will offer one of the most expansive measures of water risks currently available. It will aggregate nearly 20 weighted factors capturing (more…)

A year ago, when commodity prices were skyrocketing, all of us were forced to recognize the risks associated with the fundamental goods and services needed to run our businesses. Many were scrambling to lock in stable, reliable –and affordable –sources for fuel, transportation, utilities, etc.

But, have you ever stopped to consider how your company would fare in an economy constrained by scarce water?

Water is a critical raw material, and when you think about it, you’ll realize it’s even more important than oil –simply because there are no alternatives. Climate change and global consumerism are already having an impact on water availability, so clearly, it’s time to face the question: Is your company preparing for the emerging supply risks related to water scarcity?

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