Water Works: How Businesses Can Turn the Tide on the Hydrological Crisis

Water works – it's not just about plumbing and infrastructure; it's about the very foundation of our collective health. The disruption of the Earth's water cycle, known as the hydrological crisis, is a critical but often overlooked aspect of the climate emergency. However, by understanding and prioritizing water works, we can unlock powerful solutions to both mitigate and adapt to climate change - sometimes even more promptly than the CO2 managing systems. And businesses have a key role to play in these solutions.

The Hydrological Cycle and Climate Change in a nutshell

The hydrological cycle encompasses the continuous movement of water on, above, and below the Earth's surface. Climate change is severely disrupting this delicate balance. Here's how:

• Extreme Weather Events: Increased global temperatures lead to more frequent and intense droughts, floods, and storms. These events wreak havoc on ecosystems, agriculture, and infrastructure, with devastating humanitarian consequences.
  

• Melting Glaciers and Ice Sheets: The rapid loss of these frozen water reservoirs contributes to rising sea levels, threatening coastal communities and ecosystems. Additionally, the loss of glaciers reduces the availability of freshwater for downstream communities.
  

• Changes in Precipitation Patterns: Climate change alters where, when, and how much precipitation falls. This can lead to water scarcity in some regions and excessive rainfall and flooding in others - it's like a string instrument - where everything is connected.
  

• Ocean Acidification: The absorption of excess carbon dioxide by the oceans leads to acidification, harming marine life that would otherwise help capture CO2, as well as disrupting the food chain.
  

Addressing the Hydrological Crisis: The Role of Businesses

Businesses, especially those that rely on water resources or impact water systems, have a unique responsibility and opportunity to contribute to solutions:

• Sustainable Water Management: Companies can implement water-efficient technologies, reduce water waste in their operations, and invest in water recycling and reuse initiatives.
  

• Supply Chain Responsibility: Businesses can work with suppliers to ensure responsible water use throughout their supply chains, especially in water-stressed regions.
  

• Investing in Nature-Based Solutions: Companies can support projects that restore wetlands, protect watersheds, and promote natural infrastructure to enhance water resilience as well as sustainable fishing methods. Now, let's have a look at two case studies where I personally introduced blue sustainability practices to businesses. Case Study 1: Motosurf Sweden: Expanding Sustainability Beyond Carbon Motosurf Sweden has been committed to reducing its carbon footprint since the beginning of its operations. However, the company recognized that a narrow focus on carbon emissions alone wouldn't adequately address their impact on the environment. To truly make a difference, Motosurf Sweden decided to add another dimension to their sustainability efforts: ocean conservation. They understood that the ocean plays a critical role in the hydrological cycle and climate regulation, and that healthy marine ecosystems are essential for a sustainable future, especially in water sports. This strategy included initiatives such as: By expanding their sustainability commitment beyond carbon reduction, Motosurf Sweden is not only making a more significant impact on the environment but also enhancing their brand reputation and engaging customers in a deeper way. C ase Study 2: Supporting Sustainable Fishing Through the MSC Label The Marine Stewardship Council (MSC) is a global non-profit organization that sets a standard for sustainable fishing. By promoting the MSC label in their stores, retailers like IKEA, LIDL, ICA, and Coop are playing a crucial role in supporting sustainable fishing practices and addressing the hydrological crisis. Sustainable fishing is essential for maintaining healthy ocean ecosystems, which are vital for regulating the water cycle and mitigating climate change. Overfishing can disrupt marine food webs, reduce biodiversity, and even contribute to ocean acidification. By choosing MSC-certified seafood, consumers can be confident that their choices are supporting sustainable fisheries that minimize environmental impact and protect marine life. Retailers who promote the MSC label are not only meeting the growing consumer demand for sustainable products but also contributing to a healthier ocean and a more resilient planet. These two case studies demonstrate the diverse ways in which businesses can contribute to addressing the hydrological crisis. By integrating water stewardship into their core operations, supporting conservation efforts, and promoting sustainable practices, businesses can make a real difference in protecting our planet's precious water resources. Water works are essential for a sustainable future. By prioritizing water stewardship and investing in innovative solutions, businesses can turn the tide on the hydrological crisis and contribute to a healthier planet for all. Let's make water work for us, and for generations to come.

• Coral Reef Restoration: Supporting projects to restore damaged coral reefs, which are vital for marine biodiversity and carbon sequestration.
  

• Plastic Reduction: Implementing measures to reduce plastic waste in their operations and supply chain, as well as promoting plastic-free practices among customers.
  

• Education and Outreach: Educating customers and the public about the importance of ocean conservation and sustainable practices.