What is the water footprint and how does it affect sustainable consumption?

The water footprint, also known as the water footprint, is an indicator that measures the total volume of water used directly and indirectly to produce goods and services. This concept, developed by Arjen Hoekstra in 2002 , encompasses not only the water we consume for drinking or domestic use, but also the water used in the production of food, clothing, technology, and any other product we consume daily.

For example, producing one kilogram of beef requires approximately 15,400 liters of water, while a pair of jeans requires approximately 7,500 liters. These data demonstrate the importance of analyzing the water footprint in our lifestyles and industrial operations.

Types of water footprint

The water footprint is divided into three main types, each with a different impact on water resources:

1. Blue water footprint

Refers to freshwater extracted from surface or groundwater sources and not returned to these sources after use. For example, water used for irrigation in agriculture or in industrial processes.

2. Green water footprint

It corresponds to rainwater stored in the soil and used by plants. This type of footprint is especially relevant in agricultural and forestry production.

3. Gray water footprint

It represents the volume of water needed to dilute contaminants and maintain water quality standards. For example, water contaminated during industrial processes that requires treatment for reuse.

Why is it important to measure the water footprint?

Measuring the water footprint is essential to ensuring more efficient and sustainable water use. Some of the key benefits include:

Risk Identification: Allows businesses and governments to identify activities with high water consumption and develop strategies to reduce their impact.
Resource conservation: Help implement practices that optimize water use in production.
Awareness: Raise awareness among the population about the importance of proper water management and reducing waste.

According to UNESCO data, global water consumption has more than doubled in the last 50 years , reinforcing the need to understand and act on our water footprint.

Spain's water footprint: one of the highest in the world

Spain occupies a prominent place in the world ranking of water footprints, ranking eighth in the world and second in Europe. The annual water footprint per person in Spain is estimated at around 2,500,000 liters, almost double the global average.

This contrasts with the direct daily consumption of water, which is around 132 liters per person, a figure relatively close to the range of 50-100 liters per day that the World Health Organization (WHO) considers sufficient to cover much more than basic needs.

How to calculate the water footprint

Calculating the water footprint involves assessing the water consumed at all stages of the production of a product or service.

Some key steps include:

Identify water sources: Determine whether the water used is blue, green, or gray.
Measure water volume: Record how much water is used in each phase.
Analyze the impacts: Evaluate the effects of this consumption on ecosystems and local communities.

Tools like the Water Footprint Network offer methodologies and guidelines for companies and organizations looking to accurately measure their water footprint.

Examples of water footprint in everyday products

The following table illustrates the amount of water needed to produce some common products:

Product	Liters of Water Needed
1 kg of beef	15,400
1 cotton t-shirt	2,700
1 liter of milk	1,000
1 egg	200

This data allows us to become aware of and assess the environmental impact of food/product production and then make more informed decisions.

How to reduce our water footprint

There are several ways to reduce the water footprint at both the individual and business levels:

On a personal level

Opt for products with lower water consumption in their production.
Reduce food waste, as discarded food means wasted water.
Use water-efficient appliances.

At the business level

Implement technologies that optimize water use in production.
Conduct water footprint audits to identify areas for improvement.
Collaborate with sustainable water management initiatives and projects.

Greenme, your ally to reduce your water footprint

The water footprint is a crucial indicator for understanding and improving our relationship with water, a finite resource essential to life. Taking steps to reduce our water footprint not only benefits the environment but also strengthens our commitment to a sustainable future.

At Greenme, we work to help individuals and organizations manage their resources efficiently. Contact us to learn more about how to implement strategies that reduce your environmental impact and promote responsible water use.