Canadian Water Management and What Business Can Do
Canadians are coming to the uneasy understanding that a resource we have in such abundance is not sustainable at current rates of use. The unique situation and opportunity for Canada is that with a relatively plentiful resource comes a responsibility to manage it for the future.
Currently Canadians have the second highest water usage rates per capita, with usage expected to increase by 25% above current levels by 2030. Both the public and organizations are becoming increasingly aware that the management of water is complex and integral to long term sustainability. The effects of access, use and disposal of water by business - from supply chain to operations - are crucial to the environment and other stakeholders.
"Water is particularly undervalued in Canada and as a result many companies are making ambitious improvements in energy use before water is considered," says Wesley Gee, co-author of CBSR's Guide to Integrated Water Management and CSR Advisor, of business response to water.
CBSR's Guide to Integrated Water Management provides businesses with practical insights into the complex issues of water in Canada. The guide aims to help organizations identify and manage their water-related risks and opportunities, and includes a tool for strategic water management and many examples of company best practice.
Role of Industry
Responsibility integrating water management into your business strategy involves considering four main issues:
1. Increasing consumption, decreasing supply
2. Social license to operate
3. Government regulation, policies and programs
4. Efficient water usage
Should all sectors be aware and responding to the issue? "Regardless of sector, companies should have at least a fundamental understanding of how changes in water price, quality and supply may impact their business model and competitiveness," says Gee. "CBSR’s members are among Canada’s largest and most recognized companies, and regardless of whether they are publicly traded or privately owned, there is a growing motivation – through heightened concerns from investors, employees, customers, governments – to better integrate water related issues to a company’s strategy, and to ensure executive accountability and supply chain integrity."
On the horizon, anticipating the need, demand and opportunities will be key; awareness and collaboration are also increasing, and we can expect "a number of changes from government and industry sectors, through the development of a national water strategy and further engagement from industry and collaborative associations to encourage better business learning, strategy and practice,” says Gee.
If you would like to learn more about water management and CBSR services please contact Wesley Gee wesley@cbsr.ca
Download the Guide to Integrated Water Management
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