10/04/2024 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 10/04/2024 17:16
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We often see trees as solitary, static objects. But look closer; you'll find they are dynamic, interconnected pieces part of a much larger ecosystem. It's very much the same for our current approach to water management. Traditionally, we followed a linear model: resources are consumed, used, and discarded. This is an unsustainable approach. It ignores the interconnectedness of our natural systems and has led to resource depletion, high energy consumption, and waste generation.
For example, about 2 billion people lack access to safe drinking water, and 3.6 billion do not have access to safely managed sanitation. Half our global population experiences severe water scarcity for at least part of the year. These deficits are connected to a 10% increase in global migration. Global water scarcity has become urgent; continuing down this path is untenable.
The water sector must consider all assets as resources to be reused. This requires shifting our perspectives and practices to embrace a circular economy. By viewing water and its related processes not as isolated objects but as interconnected systems, we can enhance sustainability, optimize resource use, and improve efficiency.
Let's explore this paradigm shift, the technological innovations that support it, and the challenges ahead for water management.
The circular economy concept in the water sector
The circular economy concept is a systemic approach to benefit businesses, society, and the environment. Unlike the traditional linear model, which follows a 'take-make-dispose' model, the circular version is regenerative and aims to decouple growth from consuming finite resources.
It's a transformative shift that views water management as an interconnected process rather than an isolated activity:
It's worth noting that many water utilities have already begun renaming themselves as water recovery or water reclamation facilities to reflect their focus on sustainability and resource management.
Currents of change: Advances in water management technologies
The water sector can leverage innovations that enhance efficiency, sustainability, and resource management. These technologies enable real-time monitoring, optimize treatment processes, and integrate data for better decision-making, paving the way for more resilient water management systems. Some examples are:
Navigating the whitewater: Overcoming obstacles and mobilizing stakeholders
Transitioning to a circular water management approach can be challenging. It requires developing a common data model, which enables businesses to share assets and process information efficiently. This is an important first step, as establishing a common language fosters collaboration within the organization and across the broader ecosystem of a circular community.
The unified framework also enables stakeholders to better align their efforts and drive innovation. However, even with this in place, there are still hurdles to overcome, such as securing investment, overcoming regulatory barriers, and shifting public perception toward accepting recycled water. These challenges can be addressed through coordinated stakeholder efforts, which foster innovation, as well as the implementation of strategic reforms:
Private companies can drive innovation by investing in advanced water treatment technologies and adopting best practices, such as digital twins and integrated management platforms. Meanwhile, research institutions contribute by facilitating the transfer of knowledge and technologies between academia, industry, and government through projects, training programs, and educational initiatives.
Reimagining water management as an interconnected process
The circular approach to water management can yield significant benefits: sustainability, efficiency, and environmental protection. Recycling and reusing water, as demonstrated in Schneider Electric's Aquapolo success, reduces strain on freshwater resources, promoting long-term sustainability. Advanced technologies and optimized processes enhance efficiency, lowering energy consumption and operational costs.
Lastly, minimizing waste and pollution protects aquatic ecosystems and improves water quality, mitigating the adverse effects of wastewater disposal. This holistic approach paves the way for a sustainable and efficient future in water management.
A circular vision for a better water future
At Schneider Electric, we believe the growing challenges with our world's water require fresh, creative solutions. As an innovation leader in the water management sector and one of the world's most sustainable companies, we leverage our expertise in intelligent monitoring, energy efficiency, advanced analytics, and automation to optimize water processes, reduce costs, and help ensure water for everyone.
Our commitment to sustainability and technological innovation makes us an essential advisor for companies looking to enhance water management practices and align with global efforts towards more intelligent, more resilient water infrastructure.
To dive deeper into practical approaches to solving water scarcity, explore our water and wastewater solutions, and discover our water industry success stories. You can also watch our circularity webinar, "Developing Technology to Secure the Water Supply," to learn more.