Water Footprint Verification
Water footprinting is becoming a hot topic in the area of sustainability, especially with the Carbon Disclosure Project asking comapnies to participate in its Water Disclosure 2012. Performing a water footprint allows you to measure, manage and reduce your water consumption, thereby lowering operating costs. Independent verification of your water footprint adds credibility and validity to your reporting - your brand image is improved and your customers’ confidence in your sustainability claims increases, giving you a competitive advantage. And, of course, water footprint assurance means that you can be sure that the data you are reporting is correct so that you can continue working towards your goal of reducing your organisation’s impact on the environment.
Read why it’s time for companies to get serious about water management.
What is a Water Footprint?
A water footprint is the sum of all fresh water used to produce an item through both direct and indirect water usage.
As water is becoming more of an issue, in terms of stress of supply, potential legislation and consumer demand for transparency in the use of resources, many companies are looking to address their water consumption.
Why perform one?
- It allows you to measure, manage and reduce your water consumption, thereby potentially lowering operating costs
- Signifies your commitment to sustainability to stakeholders, thereby increasing their confidence and giving you a competitive advantage
- Can form part of a wider Sustainability Action Plan
- Can be submitted to the CDP Water Disclosure 2012 to show your commitment to water management and the environment.
Why have your Water Footprint Independently Verified?
An independently verified water footprint gives credibility to your reporting and can ensure regulatory compliance - now and in future.
Furthermore, independent assurance of your water footprint satisfies your stakeholders’ demands for:
- accuracy
- validity
- materiality
- transparency.
The CICS Water Verified Assurance Mark shows that your water footprint has been independently verified - it is a key discriminator of real commitment and action, giving both your business and your water footprint credibility, thereby enhancing your market position.
What standards and protocols are used for water footprinting?
Whilst there are currently no agreed standards for water footprinting, the engagement is performed as closely as possible with the principles of recognisable international standards (ISO 14064 - 1; WRI-WBCSD) as per Carbon Footprinting. This ensures a robust approach and methodology.
