4 steps to strengthen your company’s water resilience
By UN Global Compact NL
20.03.2025, 14:14
Water scarcity is one of the most urgent global challenges of our time. Right now, more than 2 billion people lack access to safe drinking water, and by 2030, the world is expected to face a 40% gap between freshwater supply and demand. Climate change is making the situation even worse—driving more frequent droughts, floods, and extreme weather events that threaten businesses and communities alike.
For companies, water is not just an environmental concern—it’s a business risk. With 3.6 billion people already living in water-stressed areas, organizations that fail to plan for water shortages and disruptions could face serious financial consequences. But the good news is that businesses that take proactive steps to build water resilience can unlock new opportunities for innovation, cost savings, and long-term growth.
As we recognize World Water Day, it's a crucial time to reflect on the role businesses play in protecting this vital resource. In this article, we’ll explore practical ways your company can strengthen its water resilience, reduce risk, and contribute to a more sustainable future.
1. Understanding water resilience
We understand that water resilience may not have been a top priority for every company—and that’s okay! The good news is that there are plenty of free resources available to help you get started. Our online learning platform offers a range of on-demand courses and webinars designed to equip you with the knowledge and tools needed to strengthen your company’s water resilience. For example, this 90-minute on-demand course provides a comprehensive introduction to water resilience—what it is, why it matters, and how it can help safeguard your business while driving long-term growth. Whether you’re just beginning or looking to enhance your strategy, these resources will give you the insights you need to take meaningful action.
2. Assess the status quo
You can't fix what you don't know, so start with assessing the current status of your company's water resilience. The Water Resilience Assessment Framework is designed to encourage companies to engage with the water systems critical to ensuring sustained business operations over time, and to plan for future trends, possibilities, and risks. It provides a standard, step-wise approach to measuring and enhancing resilience across different industries and provides a set of ‘Water Resilience Indicators’ and a ‘Resilience Scoring Tool’ for corporates. Practical examples are provided throughout to showcase how each step could be implemented in practice. Applicable to small, medium, and micro enterprises (SMMEs) as well as large multinational corporations with supply chains across different geographies, this detailed guidance is a step forward for businesses to start embedding resilience into their policy and practices.
3. Integrate science into target setting
The Science-Based Targets Network (SBTN) provides guidance on science-based target-setting for fresh water. It is critical that companies stay updated on these advancements, evaluating their water targets accordingly. Though some additional time may be needed to implement these new standards, the use of science-specific data is vital to setting achievable goals.
4. Showcase your commitment
Once you've set your targets and put your strategy into action, you'll start seeing results—and that’s something to celebrate! Sharing your progress not only builds trust with stakeholders but also inspires others to take action. One powerful way to showcase your commitment is by endorsing the CEO Water Mandate. This global initiative brings together companies dedicated to water stewardship, committing to action in six key areas and reporting on their progress annually. By signing the mandate, you demonstrate leadership in water resilience and reinforce your company’s dedication to a sustainable future.