ISO/TR 14073:2017 Water footprint Illustrative examples on how to apply ISO 14046

ISO/TR 14073:2017 provides illustrative examples on how to apply ISO 14046, which is the international standard for assessing and reporting the water footprint of products, processes, and organizations. It offers practical insights and examples to help organizations understand and implement the water footprint methodology.

Overview of ISO/TR 14073:2017

ISO/TR 14073:2017 is a technical report that complements ISO 14046 by providing practical examples and explanations to aid in the application of water footprint assessments. The technical report includes various case studies and illustrative examples to demonstrate how to apply the principles of ISO 14046 in real-world scenarios.

Key Components of ISO/TR 14073:2017

  1. Purpose and Scope
    • Provides guidance on how to conduct water footprint assessments in line with ISO 14046.
    • Aims to clarify how the standard can be applied across different sectors and contexts.
  2. Illustrative Examples
    • Examples of Different Water Footprint Types: Provides examples for different types of water footprints, such as product, process, and organizational water footprints.
    • Case Studies: Includes detailed case studies that show the application of ISO 14046 in various industries, such as agriculture, manufacturing, and service sectors.
    • Methodology Application: Demonstrates the practical application of water footprint methodologies, including data collection, impact assessment, and reporting.
  3. Guidance on Key Aspects
    • Data Collection: Offers insights on how to collect and manage data related to water use, quality, and impacts.
    • Impact Assessment: Guides on how to assess the environmental impacts of water use and potential improvements.
    • Reporting and Communication: Provides advice on how to report water footprint findings and communicate results effectively.
  4. Challenges and Solutions
    • Identifies common challenges encountered in water footprint assessments and provides solutions to address these challenges.
    • Includes tips for overcoming difficulties in data collection, impact assessment, and interpretation.

Illustrative Examples from ISO/TR 14073:2017

1. Product Water Footprint Example

Scenario: A company manufacturing a beverage product wants to assess the water footprint of its product.

Steps Taken:

  • Define Scope: Determine the scope of the assessment, including the product life cycle stages (e.g., raw material extraction, production, distribution, and disposal).
  • Data Collection: Gather data on water use and quality at each stage of the product’s life cycle.
  • Impact Assessment: Evaluate the environmental impacts associated with water use, including water scarcity and pollution.
  • Reporting: Prepare a report detailing the water footprint of the beverage, including key findings and recommendations for reducing water use.

Outcome: The company identifies areas where water use can be reduced and implements measures to minimize the product’s water footprint, improving sustainability.

2. Process Water Footprint Example

Scenario: A textile manufacturer wants to assess the water footprint of its production process.

Steps Taken:

  • Define Scope: Focus on the water use associated with the textile dyeing process.
  • Data Collection: Collect data on water consumption, wastewater generation, and treatment processes.
  • Impact Assessment: Analyze the impacts of water use, including the effects on local water resources and potential contamination.
  • Reporting: Document the water footprint of the dyeing process and suggest improvements for reducing water consumption and managing wastewater.

Outcome: The manufacturer identifies opportunities to optimize water use and treatment processes, leading to reduced environmental impacts.

3. Organizational Water Footprint Example

Scenario: A large organization wants to assess its overall water footprint across its operations.

Steps Taken:

  • Define Scope: Include all organizational activities, such as office operations, manufacturing, and supply chain activities.
  • Data Collection: Gather data on water use across all activities and locations.
  • Impact Assessment: Assess the overall water footprint, considering factors like water scarcity and pollution potential.
  • Reporting: Create a comprehensive report outlining the organization’s water footprint and provide recommendations for reducing water use.

Outcome: The organization develops a water management plan to reduce its overall water footprint and enhance sustainability across its operations.

Conclusion

ISO/TR 14073:2017 offers valuable insights and examples for applying ISO 14046, helping organizations effectively assess and manage their water footprint. By providing practical guidance and case studies, the technical report supports the implementation of water footprint methodologies, leading to improved water management practices and enhanced sustainability.

For further details and access to ISO/TR 14073:2017, consult the official ISO website or contact a certification body specializing in environmental management standards.

What is required ISO/TR 14073:2017 Water footprint Illustrative examples on how to apply ISO 14046

ISO/TR 14073:2017 provides practical guidance on how to apply ISO 14046, which focuses on water footprint assessment. Here’s what’s required to effectively use ISO/TR 14073:2017:

1. Understanding ISO 14046

ISO 14046 specifies the requirements and guidelines for assessing the water footprint of products, processes, and organizations. It includes:

  • Definition of Water Footprint: Measurement of the amount of water used and the impacts on water resources across the life cycle.
  • Impact Assessment: Evaluates potential environmental impacts related to water use, such as water scarcity and pollution.

2. Requirements of ISO/TR 14073:2017

ISO/TR 14073:2017 is a technical report that provides:

  • Illustrative Examples: Practical examples and case studies to demonstrate how to apply ISO 14046.
  • Guidance on Methodology: Detailed guidance on the methodologies for assessing water footprints.
  • Challenges and Solutions: Insights into common challenges faced during water footprint assessments and potential solutions.

Key Requirements for Applying ISO/TR 14073:2017

**1. Scope Definition

  • Identify the Scope: Clearly define the boundaries of the water footprint assessment, including the life cycle stages to be considered (e.g., raw material extraction, production, use, disposal).
  • Specify System Boundaries: Determine the system boundaries and scope of assessment, including geographic and temporal aspects.

**2. Data Collection

  • Gather Data: Collect relevant data on water use, quality, and impacts throughout the life cycle of the product, process, or organization.
  • Ensure Accuracy: Ensure data accuracy and reliability by using appropriate measurement and estimation methods.

**3. Impact Assessment

  • Assess Impacts: Evaluate the potential environmental impacts associated with water use, including water scarcity, pollution, and ecosystem effects.
  • Use Impact Indicators: Apply appropriate indicators to assess the impacts of water use on local and global scales.

**4. Documentation and Reporting

  • Document Findings: Prepare detailed documentation of the water footprint assessment, including data sources, methodologies, and results.
  • Prepare Reports: Create comprehensive reports that communicate the findings of the water footprint assessment, including recommendations for improvement.

**5. Addressing Challenges

  • Identify Challenges: Recognize and address common challenges in water footprint assessments, such as data gaps, variability in water use, and uncertainties.
  • Implement Solutions: Apply solutions to overcome these challenges, such as improving data collection methods and refining impact assessment techniques.

**6. Continuous Improvement

  • Monitor Performance: Continuously monitor and evaluate water footprint performance to identify areas for improvement.
  • Update Practices: Update practices and methodologies based on feedback, new information, and technological advancements.

Practical Application Examples

1. Product Water Footprint Assessment

  • Example: Assessing the water footprint of a beverage product.
  • Steps: Define the product life cycle stages, collect data on water use and quality, assess impacts, and report findings.

2. Process Water Footprint Assessment

  • Example: Evaluating the water footprint of a textile dyeing process.
  • Steps: Identify key processes, gather data on water consumption and wastewater, assess impacts, and implement improvements.

3. Organizational Water Footprint Assessment

  • Example: Measuring the water footprint of an entire organization.
  • Steps: Define organizational activities, collect data on water use across operations, assess overall impacts, and develop a water management plan.

Conclusion

ISO/TR 14073:2017 provides essential guidance for applying ISO 14046 by offering practical examples, methodological advice, and solutions to common challenges. To effectively utilize this technical report, organizations need to understand the scope of ISO 14046, gather accurate data, assess impacts, and address challenges in their water footprint assessments. This approach ensures that water footprint assessments are comprehensive, accurate, and useful for improving water management practices.

Who is required ISO/TR 14073:2017 Water footprint Illustrative examples on how to apply ISO 14046

ISO/TR 14073:2017 is valuable for a range of stakeholders who are involved in or impacted by water footprint assessments. Here’s a breakdown of who would typically benefit from and be required to use this technical report:

1. Organizations Conducting Water Footprint Assessments

a. Companies and Manufacturers

  • Purpose: To assess the water footprint of their products, processes, or facilities.
  • Benefit: Helps in understanding and managing their water use and impacts, improving sustainability practices, and meeting regulatory or market demands.

b. Agricultural Producers

  • Purpose: To measure the water footprint of agricultural products.
  • Benefit: Supports efficient water use practices, enhances environmental stewardship, and improves water management strategies.

c. Service Providers

  • Purpose: To assess the water footprint associated with their services (e.g., hospitality, event management).
  • Benefit: Helps in reducing water consumption and implementing sustainable practices within their operations.

2. Environmental Consultants and Auditors

a. Consulting Firms

  • Purpose: To provide expertise and services related to water footprint assessments and sustainability consulting.
  • Benefit: Utilizes ISO/TR 14073:2017 to guide clients in conducting accurate and effective water footprint assessments.

b. Certification Bodies

  • Purpose: To evaluate and certify organizations based on their water footprint management practices.
  • Benefit: Applies the technical report to assess compliance with water footprint standards and regulations.

3. Policy Makers and Regulatory Authorities

a. Government Agencies

  • Purpose: To develop and enforce regulations related to water use and sustainability.
  • Benefit: Uses ISO/TR 14073:2017 to understand and promote best practices in water footprint assessments and environmental management.

b. Environmental NGOs

  • Purpose: To advocate for sustainable water management practices and assess the effectiveness of environmental policies.
  • Benefit: Employs the technical report to evaluate and support water footprint initiatives and campaigns.

4. Academics and Researchers

a. Research Institutions

  • Purpose: To study water footprint methodologies and their applications.
  • Benefit: Uses case studies and examples from ISO/TR 14073:2017 to support research and develop new insights in water sustainability.

b. Universities

  • Purpose: To educate students and conduct research on environmental sustainability and water management.
  • Benefit: Integrates practical examples and methodologies from the technical report into academic programs and research projects.

5. Supply Chain Partners

a. Suppliers and Vendors

  • Purpose: To assess and improve the water footprint of their products and processes.
  • Benefit: Uses ISO/TR 14073:2017 to align with sustainability expectations from their clients and enhance their environmental performance.

Summary

ISO/TR 14073:2017 is required by various stakeholders involved in water footprint assessments, including companies, manufacturers, service providers, environmental consultants, policy makers, researchers, and supply chain partners. Each of these groups uses the technical report to understand, apply, and communicate water footprint methodologies, helping them improve sustainability practices and meet environmental goals.

When is required ISO/TR 14073:2017 Water footprint Illustrative examples on how to apply ISO 14046

ISO/TR 14073:2017 is required in various contexts and situations related to water footprint assessments and sustainability practices. Here’s when it is needed:

1. During Water Footprint Assessments

a. Initial Assessment Planning

  • When: At the beginning of a water footprint assessment project.
  • Purpose: To understand how to apply ISO 14046 principles effectively, define scope, and plan data collection.

b. Methodology Implementation

  • When: While implementing the methodologies outlined in ISO 14046.
  • Purpose: To gain practical insights and examples for applying the standard’s requirements.

c. Data Collection and Analysis

  • When: During the collection and analysis of data related to water use and impacts.
  • Purpose: To follow best practices and avoid common pitfalls by using the illustrative examples provided.

2. For Certification and Compliance

a. Certification Preparation

  • When: Prior to undergoing certification or verification against ISO 14046.
  • Purpose: To ensure that the organization’s water footprint assessment aligns with certification requirements and industry standards.

b. Regulatory Compliance

  • When: To comply with regulations and standards related to water use and sustainability.
  • Purpose: To demonstrate adherence to best practices and meet regulatory expectations.

3. In Reporting and Communication

a. Reporting Findings

  • When: When preparing reports on water footprint assessments.
  • Purpose: To effectively communicate findings, ensure accuracy, and present results in a manner consistent with ISO 14046.

b. Stakeholder Communication

  • When: While communicating with stakeholders, including clients, customers, and partners.
  • Purpose: To provide clear and credible information about the organization’s water footprint and sustainability efforts.

4. For Continuous Improvement

a. Reviewing and Updating Practices

  • When: During periodic reviews of water footprint management practices.
  • Purpose: To integrate lessons learned and improve assessment methodologies based on practical examples and case studies.

b. Enhancing Sustainability Strategies

  • When: When updating or developing new sustainability strategies.
  • Purpose: To incorporate best practices and effective methodologies for managing and reducing water footprint.

5. In Training and Capacity Building

a. Staff Training

  • When: During training sessions for staff involved in water footprint assessments and sustainability management.
  • Purpose: To provide practical examples and understanding of ISO 14046 through ISO/TR 14073:2017.

b. Educational Programs

  • When: In educational and professional development programs focused on environmental management.
  • Purpose: To teach the application of water footprint assessment methodologies and enhance knowledge in the field.

Summary

ISO/TR 14073:2017 is required whenever practical guidance and examples are needed for applying ISO 14046 in water footprint assessments. This includes during initial planning, methodology implementation, data analysis, certification preparation, regulatory compliance, reporting, continuous improvement, and training. The technical report helps ensure that water footprint assessments are conducted effectively and consistently with international standards.

Where is required ISO/TR 14073:2017 Water footprint Illustrative examples on how to apply ISO 14046

ISO/TR 14073:2017 is required in various contexts and locations where water footprint assessments are relevant. Here’s where the technical report is typically used:

1. Organizational Operations

a. Manufacturing Facilities

  • Where: In production plants where water use is a significant factor.
  • Purpose: To assess and manage the water footprint of manufacturing processes and products.

b. Agricultural Operations

  • Where: In farms and agricultural production facilities.
  • Purpose: To evaluate the water footprint of crops, livestock, and other agricultural activities.

c. Service Providers

  • Where: In sectors such as hospitality, events, and consulting.
  • Purpose: To assess the water footprint of service operations and improve water management practices.

2. Environmental Consulting and Auditing

a. Consulting Firms

  • Where: In environmental consulting practices and firms.
  • Purpose: To provide clients with guidance on water footprint assessments and ensure methodologies are correctly applied.

b. Certification Bodies

  • Where: In organizations that certify compliance with environmental and sustainability standards.
  • Purpose: To evaluate and certify water footprint assessments in line with ISO 14046.

3. Policy and Regulation

a. Government Agencies

  • Where: In environmental regulatory agencies and policy-making bodies.
  • Purpose: To develop and enforce regulations related to water use and sustainability, using ISO/TR 14073:2017 as a reference.

b. Environmental Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs)

  • Where: In NGOs focused on environmental protection and sustainability.
  • Purpose: To advocate for and support water footprint management practices.

4. Academic and Research Institutions

a. Research Centers

  • Where: In universities and research institutions focused on environmental science and sustainability.
  • Purpose: To conduct research on water footprint methodologies and their applications.

b. Educational Programs

  • Where: In academic programs and professional development courses.
  • Purpose: To educate students and professionals about water footprint assessments and sustainability practices.

5. Supply Chain Management

a. Suppliers and Vendors

  • Where: In the supply chains of organizations across various industries.
  • Purpose: To assess and improve the water footprint of products and processes within the supply chain.

6. Industry and Sector Specific Applications

a. Food and Beverage Industry

  • Where: In companies involved in producing and processing food and beverages.
  • Purpose: To assess and manage the water footprint of food and beverage products.

b. Textile and Apparel Industry

  • Where: In textile manufacturing and apparel production facilities.
  • Purpose: To evaluate and reduce the water footprint associated with textile dyeing and production.

Summary

ISO/TR 14073:2017 is required wherever water footprint assessments are conducted. This includes organizational operations, environmental consulting, policy and regulation, academic and research institutions, supply chain management, and specific industry applications. The technical report provides practical guidance and examples that are crucial for applying ISO 14046 effectively in these various contexts.

How is required ISO/TR 14073:2017 Water footprint Illustrative examples on how to apply ISO 14046

ISO/TR 14073:2017 is required to be used in the following ways to effectively apply the principles of ISO 14046 for assessing water footprints:

1. Understanding and Implementing Methodologies

a. Application of Water Footprint Methods

  • How: Use the illustrative examples provided in ISO/TR 14073:2017 to understand and implement the methodologies outlined in ISO 14046.
  • Purpose: To ensure that the assessment methods are applied correctly and consistently, covering all necessary aspects of water use and impact.

b. Scope and Boundaries

  • How: Define the scope and boundaries of the assessment by following the guidance on determining life cycle stages, geographic locations, and temporal aspects.
  • Purpose: To ensure comprehensive and accurate assessments that reflect all relevant water use and impacts.

2. Data Collection and Analysis

a. Gathering Accurate Data

  • How: Collect data on water use, quality, and impacts as described in the illustrative examples.
  • Purpose: To ensure that the data collected is relevant, accurate, and sufficient for assessing the water footprint.

b. Addressing Data Challenges

  • How: Use the technical report to overcome common data collection and analysis challenges, such as data gaps or inconsistencies.
  • Purpose: To improve the reliability and validity of the water footprint assessment.

3. Impact Assessment

a. Evaluating Environmental Impacts

  • How: Apply the impact assessment methodologies and indicators described in ISO/TR 14073:2017 to evaluate the environmental impacts of water use.
  • Purpose: To assess the potential impacts of water use on local and global scales, including water scarcity and pollution.

b. Interpretation of Results

  • How: Use the examples and case studies to interpret the results of the impact assessment.
  • Purpose: To understand the significance of the findings and to make informed decisions based on the assessment.

4. Reporting and Communication

a. Preparing Reports

  • How: Follow the guidance for documenting and reporting the results of the water footprint assessment.
  • Purpose: To present the findings clearly and effectively to stakeholders, ensuring transparency and credibility.

b. Communicating with Stakeholders

  • How: Use the insights from ISO/TR 14073:2017 to communicate the results and recommendations to various stakeholders, including clients, customers, and regulatory bodies.
  • Purpose: To engage stakeholders and demonstrate the organization’s commitment to sustainability.

5. Continuous Improvement

a. Reviewing and Updating Practices

  • How: Incorporate lessons learned from the application of ISO/TR 14073:2017 into the organization’s water management practices.
  • Purpose: To continuously improve water footprint assessment practices and enhance overall water management.

b. Enhancing Sustainability Strategies

  • How: Use the technical report to refine and update sustainability strategies and practices.
  • Purpose: To achieve better water use efficiency and reduce environmental impacts.

6. Training and Capacity Building

a. Staff Training

  • How: Use the illustrative examples and methodologies as part of training programs for staff involved in water footprint assessments.
  • Purpose: To ensure that staff are well-trained in applying the principles and methodologies of ISO 14046.

b. Educational Resources

  • How: Integrate insights from ISO/TR 14073:2017 into educational materials and programs focused on environmental management and sustainability.
  • Purpose: To enhance knowledge and skills related to water footprint assessments.

Summary

ISO/TR 14073:2017 is required to be used in various ways to apply ISO 14046 effectively. This includes implementing assessment methodologies, collecting and analyzing data, evaluating environmental impacts, preparing reports, communicating results, continuously improving practices, and providing training. The technical report offers practical examples and guidance to ensure that water footprint assessments are comprehensive, accurate, and aligned with international standards.

Case Study on ISO/TR 14073:2017 Water footprint Illustrative examples on how to apply ISO 14046

Case Study: Water Footprint Assessment of a Beverage Production Facility

1. Introduction

Objective: This case study examines the application of ISO/TR 14073:2017 to assess the water footprint of a beverage production facility. The goal is to identify the water usage and impacts across the facility’s life cycle, from raw material sourcing to product distribution.

Facility: A mid-sized beverage production plant specializing in bottled soft drinks.

2. Scope Definition

a. System Boundaries

  • Inclusions: Raw material extraction, production processes, packaging, distribution, and end-of-life.
  • Exclusions: Retail operations and consumer use.

b. Functional Unit

  • Definition: One liter of bottled beverage produced.

3. Data Collection

a. Water Use Data

  • Raw Materials: Water used in agricultural activities (e.g., growing sugarcane).
  • Production: Water used in the beverage manufacturing process, including mixing, cooling, and cleaning.
  • Packaging: Water used for rinsing and preparing bottles.
  • Distribution: Water used in transport logistics (e.g., washing vehicles).

b. Data Sources

  • Internal Records: Production logs, water usage reports, and maintenance records.
  • External Data: Water usage data from suppliers and industry benchmarks.

4. Methodology Implementation

a. Water Footprint Calculation

  • Direct Water Use: Calculated based on internal data from production and packaging.
  • Indirect Water Use: Estimated using data on agricultural water use and other external sources.

b. Impact Assessment

  • Water Scarcity: Assessed by comparing water use against regional water availability and scarcity indicators.
  • Pollution: Evaluated based on wastewater discharge quality and potential impacts on local water bodies.

c. Examples and Guidance

  • Use of ISO/TR 14073:2017: Applied illustrative examples from the report to handle challenges such as data gaps and variability in water use.

5. Results

a. Total Water Footprint

  • Direct Water Use: 2 liters of water per liter of beverage produced.
  • Indirect Water Use: 1.5 liters of water per liter of beverage due to raw material production.

b. Impact Analysis

  • Water Scarcity: The facility’s water use is high relative to local water availability, contributing to regional water stress.
  • Pollution: Wastewater treatment processes are effective, but improvements could reduce potential impacts on local water bodies.

6. Recommendations

a. Water Reduction Strategies

  • Production Efficiency: Implement water-saving technologies in production processes.
  • Supplier Engagement: Work with suppliers to improve water use efficiency in raw material production.

b. Pollution Mitigation

  • Wastewater Management: Enhance treatment processes to further reduce pollution potential.
  • Monitoring: Increase monitoring of wastewater discharge to ensure compliance with environmental standards.

c. Continuous Improvement

  • Data Monitoring: Regularly update water use data and impact assessments to track progress and make informed decisions.
  • Sustainability Goals: Set targets for reducing water footprint and improving sustainability practices.

7. Reporting and Communication

a. Internal Reporting

  • Documentation: Prepare detailed reports on water footprint findings, including data sources, methodologies, and recommendations.
  • Stakeholder Engagement: Share findings with management and staff to drive internal improvements.

b. External Communication

  • Public Reporting: Publish water footprint results in sustainability reports to demonstrate commitment to environmental stewardship.
  • Stakeholder Outreach: Communicate with external stakeholders, including customers and regulators, about water management efforts and improvements.

8. Lessons Learned

a. Data Accuracy

  • Challenge: Ensuring accurate data collection from multiple sources.
  • Solution: Implement standardized data collection procedures and regular audits.

b. Impact Interpretation

  • Challenge: Interpreting the significance of water use and impact results.
  • Solution: Use guidance from ISO/TR 14073:2017 to ensure consistent and meaningful impact assessments.

c. Continuous Improvement

  • Challenge: Maintaining momentum for water management improvements.
  • Solution: Regularly review and update water footprint practices and engage stakeholders in sustainability initiatives.

Conclusion

The case study demonstrates the practical application of ISO/TR 14073:2017 in assessing the water footprint of a beverage production facility. By following the guidance and illustrative examples provided in the technical report, the facility was able to identify key areas for improvement, implement effective water management strategies, and communicate its efforts to stakeholders. This approach helps ensure that water footprint assessments are accurate, actionable, and aligned with best practices in environmental management.

White Paper on ISO/TR 14073:2017 Water footprint Illustrative examples on how to apply ISO 14046

1. Introduction

Objective: This white paper provides an overview of ISO/TR 14073:2017, offering illustrative examples on how to apply the principles of ISO 14046 for water footprint assessments. It aims to guide organizations in implementing effective water footprint methodologies and improving sustainability practices.

Scope: The paper covers the use of ISO/TR 14073:2017 across various sectors, including manufacturing, agriculture, and services, highlighting practical applications and case studies.


2. Understanding ISO/TR 14073:2017

a. Overview

  • ISO/TR 14073:2017: Technical report providing guidance on applying ISO 14046, which specifies principles and requirements for assessing water footprints of products, processes, and organizations.
  • Purpose: To offer practical examples and methodologies for assessing the water footprint, addressing challenges, and ensuring consistent application.

b. Key Components

  • Water Footprint Assessment: Methodology for quantifying water use and impacts throughout the life cycle of a product or process.
  • Illustrative Examples: Practical examples included in the technical report to help users apply ISO 14046 effectively.

3. Methodology for Water Footprint Assessment

a. Defining Scope and Boundaries

  • Example: For a beverage production facility, include raw material sourcing, production, packaging, and distribution.
  • Considerations: Define functional units, geographic locations, and timeframes to ensure comprehensive assessments.

b. Data Collection and Analysis

  • Example: Collect data on water use in agriculture, production processes, and packaging. Use benchmarks and external data to fill gaps.
  • Challenges: Address data accuracy, variability, and gaps by following guidance on data collection and interpretation.

c. Impact Assessment

  • Example: Assess impacts on water scarcity and pollution. Use indicators provided in ISO/TR 14073:2017 to evaluate environmental significance.
  • Methods: Apply impact assessment methodologies to understand the effects of water use and develop mitigation strategies.

4. Practical Applications and Case Studies

a. Manufacturing Sector

  • Case Study: A textile manufacturing facility evaluates its water footprint by assessing water use in dyeing processes, raw material production, and wastewater treatment.
  • Results: Identifies high water use in dyeing and seeks to implement water-efficient technologies and improve wastewater management.

b. Agricultural Sector

  • Case Study: An agricultural producer assesses the water footprint of crop production, including irrigation and processing.
  • Results: Finds opportunities to reduce water use through improved irrigation techniques and sustainable agricultural practices.

c. Service Sector

  • Case Study: A hotel chain assesses its water footprint across various locations, including guest services, laundry, and landscaping.
  • Results: Implements water-saving measures in guest rooms and laundry operations, reducing overall water use and improving sustainability.

5. Implementation and Best Practices

a. Integration into Business Operations

  • Steps: Incorporate water footprint assessments into sustainability strategies, set targets for reduction, and integrate findings into business decision-making.
  • Best Practices: Regularly update assessments, engage stakeholders, and promote transparency in reporting.

b. Communication and Reporting

  • Strategies: Develop clear and comprehensive reports on water footprint assessments, highlighting key findings, improvements, and future goals.
  • Stakeholder Engagement: Communicate results to customers, regulators, and other stakeholders to demonstrate commitment to sustainability.

c. Continuous Improvement

  • Approach: Use insights from water footprint assessments to drive continuous improvement in water management practices.
  • Monitoring: Regularly review and update practices based on new data and evolving standards.

6. Conclusion

Summary: ISO/TR 14073:2017 provides valuable guidance for applying ISO 14046 in water footprint assessments. By following the illustrative examples and methodologies outlined in the technical report, organizations can effectively measure, manage, and reduce their water footprint. This approach supports improved sustainability practices, regulatory compliance, and stakeholder engagement.

Future Outlook: As water scarcity and environmental concerns continue to grow, the application of ISO/TR 14073:2017 will play a critical role in advancing water management practices and achieving global sustainability goals.


Contact Information

For further details and support on implementing water footprint assessments using ISO/TR 14073:2017, please contact [Your Organization’s Contact Information].


This white paper aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of how to apply ISO/TR 14073:2017 and support organizations in achieving effective water footprint assessments and sustainability improvements.

Share

Translate »
× How can I help you?