Water risk tool developed for businesses

The tool uses data from 235 countries and territories, provides interactive maps and case studies, and uses company-specific information to analyse water risk.

“Water scarcity is a concern for conservationists, communities and companies alike,” said Jim Leape, WWF International director general.

“But simply competing for every last drop will do no good to anyone. If water users become aware of their water risks – and work together to find solutions —we can ensure that people, nature and businesses have the water they need.”

Businesses can have a serious impact on water resources that are already overstretched in many regions. Roughly 40 per cent of the world’s population lives in river basins that experience severe water scarcity during at least one month of the year; the UN estimates that, by 2025, two-thirds of the world’s population could be living under water stressed conditions.

WWF and DEG (Deutsche Investitions und Entwicklungsgesellschaft) have developed a water risk tool that enables businesses and investors to build a picture of where they have greatest risk from water shortages, and how to work with other water users and local authorities in order to increase water security in regions of concern.

The tool uses data from 235 countries and territories, provides interactive maps and case studies, and uses company-specific information to analyse water risk.“Water scarcity is a concern for conservationists, communities and companies alike,” said Jim Leape, WWF International director general.“But simply competing for every last drop will do no good to anyone. If water users become aware of their water risks – and work together to find solutions —we can ensure that people, nature and businesses have the water they need.”Businesses can have a serious impact on water resources that are already overstretched in many regions. Roughly 40 per cent of the world’s population lives in river basins that experience severe water scarcity during at least one month of the year; the UN estimates that, by 2025, two-thirds of the world’s population could be living under water stressed conditions.