?? Elevate your knowledge: Aquatech's October best articles unveiled!

Welcome to the 10th edition of the 2024 Aquatech newsletter: Watertech Insights. Read our best-read articles of October.

Coca-Cola invests in Mexican river replenishment

Coca-Cola, in partnership with Arca Continental and Coahuila’s government, is taking bold steps to boost water security in Mexico's Aguanaval sub-basin. With a €888,000 investment, this initiative focuses on soil improvement in the Barreal de Guadalupe area, aiming to replenish 333,000 cubic meters of water annually until 2026. Through collaboration with nature-based solutions company Toroto, Coca-Cola hopes to enhance water resilience and sustainability for local communities who depend on this vital resource.

In addition to water replenishment, the project includes restoring 560 hectares in the Laguna region using nature-based solutions, with support from local institutions. The partnership will also employ the SWAT hydrological tool to assess the impacts of climate change and guide adaptive strategies for long-term water stewardship. This program is part of Coca-Cola’s broader commitment to return 100% of the water used in production to its surrounding watersheds.

Read the full article to learn more about how Coca-Cola is leading water conservation efforts in Mexico.

TECH DIVE: Atmospheric Water Generation

With global water scarcity on the rise, innovative solutions like Atmospheric Water Generation (AWG) are emerging as essential tools for sustainable water access. AWG systems capture moisture from the air, condense it, and purify it for safe drinking, offering an independent water source even in remote or disaster-affected areas. With techniques such as condensation and sorbent-based methods, these systems can operate off-grid, powered by solar energy, making them a practical solution for communities facing water stress.

Notably, AWG technology is gaining traction in rural communities, emergency relief efforts, and urban applications, providing a reliable water supply where conventional infrastructure falls short. Companies like EcoTechX, H2OLL, and Akvo are advancing AWG's capabilities to function in low-humidity environments and scale water production efficiently, reducing environmental impact and promoting accessibility.

Explore how AWG is transforming global water solutions—read the full article for insights on its applications and future potential.

Europe strengthens PFAS action and prioritises resilience

The European Commission is prioritizing water resilience with strategic moves to safeguard water resources across the EU. In a landmark decision, Jessika Roswall has been appointed as the new Commissioner for Environment, Water Resilience, and a Competitive Circular Economy. Her role is pivotal in driving a circular, resilient economy, with water security taking center stage alongside decarbonization and regional cohesion. This emphasis signals a unified approach across EU policies, recognizing the crucial impact of water resilience on Europe’s economy, security, and environment.

Additionally, the Commission has restricted the use of PFHxA, a PFAS substance commonly found in consumer goods like textiles and food packaging. This restriction aims to protect health and the environment while encouraging safer alternatives, moving closer to a “toxic-free” Europe. Furthermore, the recently registered European Citizens’ Initiative (ECI) advocates for a “Water-Smart and Resilient Europe,” proposing an EU action plan that aligns water resilience with climate goals and promotes sustainable water governance.

Dive deeper into Europe’s comprehensive water resilience strategies—read the full article on our website.

Global stewardship standards for the water industry

SCS Global Services’ new Certification for Water Stewardship and Resiliency (WSR) equips organizations with a robust framework to improve water management, connect water stewardship to sustainability goals, and transparently communicate their progress. By tracking metrics such as water usage, quality, and balance, the WSR encourages organizations to not only meet baseline requirements but to explore innovations that support biodiversity, circular water use, and nature-based solutions. This approach aligns water stewardship with broader environmental and climate adaptation goals, making it a strategic addition to any organization’s sustainability initiatives.

The WSR certification process, structured as a multi-year journey, allows businesses to build on initial baselines and track ongoing improvements. Additional “trailblazer” options—such as biodiversity impacts, net-zero water use, and community engagement—provide tailored pathways for companies to address specific environmental challenges and showcase leadership in water resilience.

Learn how WSR can elevate your water stewardship strategy—read the full article on our website!