Water is a paradoxical commodity: It seems free and plentiful, yet its supply is under tremendous strain. Use of fresh water has more than doubled in the past 50 years, and many fear that we are coming close to a frightening breaking point, a world where chronic water shortages for farmers, businesses and people are the norm. Some experts even see international conflict emerging over access to dwindling supplies. Recognizing these concerns, companies are undertaking major programs to realign their water use with core business and humanitarian interests. But while objectives like being “water neutral” and using “footprinting” — tracking the use of water throughout the supply chain — are ambitious, what is being done to achieve them? Are these goals realistic, and will they have enough impact? This special report addresses these questions.
Valuing Water: How Can Businesses Manage the Coming Scarcity?
Water is a paradoxical commodity: It seems free and plentiful, yet its supply is under tremendous strain. Use of fresh water has more than doubled in the past 50 years, and many fear that we are coming close to a frightening breaking point, a world where chronic water shortages for farmers, businesses and people are the norm. Some experts even see international conflict emerging over access to dwindling supplies. Recognizing these concerns, companies are undertaking major programs to realign their water use with core business and humanitarian interests. But while objectives like being "water neutral" and using "footprinting" -- tracking the use of water throughout the supply chain -- are ambitious, what is being done to achieve them? Are these goals realistic, and will they have enough impact? This special report addresses these questions.
March 16, 2011
• 1 min read
Comments
New This Week
Podcast
The Hidden Financial Risks of the AI Boom
Joao Gomes, Wharton professor of finance and senior vice dean of research, centers, and academic initiatives, explains why the Federal Reserve needs to pay closer attention to how the massive AI boom is being financed.
Podcast
When Teammates Become Competitors
Henning Piezunka, Wharton associate professor of management, explores how competition between colleagues can damage collaboration and reshape workplace relationships.
Podcast
What Analytics Reveal About College Football’s Top Teams
Bill Connelly, ESPN staff writer and creator of SP+, previews the college football season through playoff odds, schedule strength, roster stability, and conference depth.
