Sustainable use of water

Less than 1.2% of all water on earth is available for human use, and the UN projects a 40% shortfall in meeting demand for global water by 2030. More efficient use of water is critical to addressing this shortfall, as well as mitigating the impact of increasing droughts and floods resulting from climate change. Companies play a central role in how water is used, especially in industrial, agricultural, and food industries. Companies can contribute to sustainable water use in several ways, including by reducing water withdrawals, especially in high-stress water regions; setting specific targets for their water use and establishing robust policies for water use and management; engaging with their value chains on sustainable water use; leading on developing and implementing international standards for water use; and setting board and executive compensation incentives to better manage water issues