New report breaks down global water threats, builds hope with disruptive thinking and solutions

Water accounts for 70 percent of the Earth’s surface, leading some to believe that the threat of water scarcity is exaggerated. But, in reality, only 2.5 percent of that supply is fresh and useable, a harsh truth that reveals how limited our resources truly are.

The myth of global abundance is just one of many water challenges detailed in “Future of Water,” a new report published by Raconteur in association with the World Economic Forum and British Water. The report is direct in its discussion of the interconnected water crises that face our planet, from “Day Zero” scenarios in Tamil Nadu and 21 other cities in India to changes in the Earth’s rotation caused by depleted aquifers and melting ice sheets.

In response, industry leaders across the value chain – including DuPont Water Solutions – share their deep insight from the front lines in the fight to conserve and reuse water.

According to Alexander Lane, DuPont Water Solutions’ Commercial Director, large-scale collaboration and rethinking our holistic approach to resource management are necessary to mitigate the growing threat of water scarcity. From California to Kenya and Egypt to Australia, partnership is critical to advance science, change global perceptions and investigate new methodologies to better solve water challenges.

“Eighty percent of the water that is produced is released back to the environment. That’s already a source of reasonably well-treated water that should be tapped, rather than just letting it go down the drain,” he said. We need to shift our thinking from linear to circular: reduce usage firstly, yes, but also then look at ways we can recycle and treat the water we have.” 

By innovating technologies and strategies to reclaim and purify wastewater, 95 percent of liquid discharge can be converted into a sustainable source of freshwater, all at a price point that is 60 percent lower than conventional solutions. A minimal liquid discharge approach is made possible by a proven suite of water treatment products – including ultrafiltration, reverse osmosis, ion exchange and the use of ultraviolet light.

“Customised problem solving is the best way to meet the increasingly complex needs of end users across markets and applications,” said HP Nanda, DuPont Water Solutions’ Vice President. “Implementing one-size-fits-all water treatment is not effective or cost-efficient. It is critical to pin-point the right products for a specific need, water quality, place and time. It’s a daunting challenge, but we at DuPont are fully capable and prepared to guide customers through this process, working collaboratively with other stakeholders.”