Water Footprint Measurement and Blue Certification

The Water Footprint is an indicator that assesses the environmental impact associated with the water use of an organization, product, or process. It considers not only the volume of water used, but also how that consumption affects the availability and quality of water resources.

Water consumption simply indicates the amount of water used. In contrast, the Water Footprint analyzes the impact of that consumption by considering factors such as the availability of water in the area, water quality, and the effects on the environment, providing a more comprehensive view for decision-making.

We measure the Water Footprint using internationally recognized methodologies, such as ISO 14046, which allows us to assess the impacts associated with water use throughout an organization’s operations. Depending on the study’s objectives, complementary methodologies may also be used to assess water impacts.

The Blue Certificate is an award granted by the National Water Authority (ANA) to organizations that participate in the Water Footprint Program and fulfill commitments related to measuring and reducing water consumption and implementing shared-value initiatives to contribute to the sustainable management of water resources.

Obtaining the Blue Certificate strengthens the organization’s reputation, demonstrates responsible water resource management, helps improve competitiveness with customers and public entities, promotes reduced water consumption, and strengthens relationships with communities and other stakeholders.

The information required will depend on the scope of the study, but generally includes data on water consumption, water sources, production processes, energy and fuel consumption, discharges, as well as other information related to operations and, where applicable, the supply chain. Our team supports the organization throughout the entire process of collecting and validating the information.

The time required may vary depending on the size of the organization, the complexity of its operations, and the availability of information. Generally speaking, a Water Footprint assessment can be completed within a period ranging from a few weeks to a few months.

Water Footprint measurement can be conducted by organizations in any sector that wish to understand the impact of their operations on water resources, optimize their water management, strengthen their sustainability strategy, or participate in initiatives such as the Blue Certificate. It is particularly relevant for water-intensive sectors, such as manufacturing, agribusiness, mining, food and beverage, energy, and sanitation.

Currently, there is no general requirement for all organizations to measure their Water Footprint. However, an increasing number of companies are voluntarily conducting this assessment to optimize water use, strengthen their sustainability strategy, meet the expectations of customers and stakeholders, and obtain the Blue Certificate issued by the National Water Authority (ANA), which recognizes organizations committed to responsible water resource management.