Introduction
The growing concern with sustainability and the preservation of natural resources has led companies to rethink their management models. Among these resources, water plays a central role, being essential for life and the operation of various productive sectors. However, its availability faces increasing challenges, such as water scarcity and rising global demand.
In this context, ABNT PR2030, published in 2022, emerges as a strategic guideline for organizations aiming to integrate ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) principles into their operations. By proposing practices focused on water efficiency and rational use, the standard provides a clear pathway for companies to not only contribute to environmental preservation but also optimize costs and enhance competitiveness in the market.
This article explores how adopting these practices can yield positive results, presenting real cases of companies that implemented sustainable measures, reduced their water consumption, and achieved financial and reputational returns.
Water Usage
Specifically regarding water use, ABNT PR2030 highlights the importance of efficient water resource management, including the rational use of water and the proper management of effluents (any liquid substance discarded or released by a specific source, such as an industry, sewage treatment plant, or any other facility using water in its processes). The standard suggests that organizations establish policies and practices to monitor and reduce water consumption, as well as treat and reuse effluents whenever possible. These actions aim to minimize environmental impact and promote the sustainability of water resources.
To implement these guidelines, the standard recommends that organizations:
- Map water-consuming processes to identify reduction opportunities;
- Set clear goals for reducing consumption and ongoing monitoring;
- Invest in technologies that enable water reuse and recycling;
- Raise employee awareness of the importance of sustainable water use.
By adopting these practices, organizations not only contribute to preserving water resources but also demonstrate a commitment to sustainability, aligning with the expectations of investors, customers, and other stakeholders.
Initial Investment and ROI
Adopting the practices recommended by ABNT PR2030 regarding efficient water management often involves an initial investment in more sustainable technologies and processes. However, this typically leads to a significant reduction in water consumption and, consequently, lower operational costs associated with this resource.
How it works:
Water efficiency technologies:
Investments in systems such as flow reducers, rainwater harvesting, water recycling technologies, or monitoring systems. These systems help identify waste and correct inefficiencies, optimizing usage.
Treatment and reuse:
Reusing treated water in internal processes, such as cooling, cleaning, or irrigation, reduces dependence on external sources. Long-term savings can surpass the initial cost of treatment installations.
Financial benefits:
Direct cost reduction from less water purchased or sourced, alongside savings on effluent treatment and disposal costs.
Tax incentives or subsidies in some cases, where sustainable practices are supported by public policies.
Sustainable impact:
In addition to cost savings, these practices positively impact the company’s reputation, attracting consumers and investors who value ESG-aligned initiatives.
Practical example:
A factory that adopts a water reuse system may incur high initial installation costs but significantly reduces water purchase and effluent disposal expenses. This investment usually pays off in the medium term (2 to 5 years), depending on the scale.
This approach creates a virtuous cycle: lower operational costs, greater sustainability, and increased market competitiveness.
Cases
Several companies in Brazil have implemented efficient water resource management practices, achieving significant reductions in water consumption and, consequently, operational costs. Here are some examples:
PepsiCo
Initiative: At its facility in Itu, São Paulo, PepsiCo implemented a biological system with ultrafiltration membranes to treat and reuse effluents in 2021.
Results: 60% monthly water consumption savings, equivalent to approximately 12 million liters per month, or about five Olympic-sized swimming pools.
Unilever
Initiative: The company adopted monitoring and control technologies to reduce water consumption in its Brazilian factories.
Results: Between 2008 and 2018, Unilever reduced its global operational water consumption by 49%, with Brazil achieving a 54% reduction in the same period.
Acelen
Initiative: Implemented water efficiency measures at the Mataripe Refinery.
Results: From 2023 to 2022, the company reduced total water consumption by 10%, saving 1.4 billion liters annually — enough to supply a city of 30,000 people for a year.
These examples demonstrate that investments in sustainable technologies and practices can result in significant water savings and reduced operational costs. While the exact values of initial investments are not disclosed, the returns achieved highlight the economic viability of these initiatives.
Conclusion
Adopting the practices recommended by ABNT PR2030 is a strategic approach that unites environmental responsibility, operational efficiency, and market competitiveness. By incorporating technologies and efficient water management policies, companies not only contribute to water resource preservation but also reduce costs and increase their appeal to conscious investors and consumers.
The presented cases show that the initial investment in water efficiency technologies, while significant, is largely offset by reductions in water consumption, savings in effluent treatment, and even tax incentives. Moreover, the positive impact of these actions goes beyond financial gains, strengthening companies’ reputations and aligning their operations with growing sustainability demands.
Thus, implementing these practices should be seen not as a cost but as a strategic investment in the future, reinforcing commitment to ESG principles and contributing to a sustainable and resilient business model in a world that increasingly values responsible resource management.
References
ASSOCIAÇÃO BRASILEIRA DE NORMAS TÉCNICAS. ABNT PR 2030: Recommended Practices for Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG). Rio de Janeiro: ABNT, 2023. Available at: https://www.abnt.org.br.