World Water Day 2025, with its focus on glacier preservation, serves as a stark reminder of the interconnectedness of our water systems. For industries, this theme is not just an environmental concern but a call to action. Katie Peach of Veolia Water Technologies and Solutions underscores that glaciers are critical freshwater reserves, and their shrinkage due to climate change poses significant challenges for industrial water management. “Freshwater is a finite resource,” Peach asserts, “so all aspects of water management are deeply interconnected.”
Industries must act now to mitigate these risks. Reducing dependence on freshwater through improved water efficiency and implementing water recycling and reuse programs are not just sustainable practices but strategic necessities. Peach highlights that enhancing the efficiency of water-reliant processes and addressing leaks or excessive evaporation can conserve resources and strengthen resilience to glacier loss. “By adopting these strategies, industries can better prepare for future water scarcity and contribute to sustainable water management,” she says.
Compliance with evolving water regulations need not be a financial burden. Peach advises looking at the overall water balance within a facility to identify inefficiencies and optimize water use. Investing in water-saving technologies reduces water expenses and improves supply resilience, minimizing risks from extreme weather conditions. Incentives like tax credits and government programs can offset compliance costs, while digital tools enhance cost efficiency through predictive maintenance and real-time monitoring.
Water reuse is a game-changer for industrial operations. It reduces both water consumption and waste, conserves resources, and supports regulatory compliance. Peach points out that water recycling provides freshwater at the point of use, lowering operational expenses and enhancing sustainability. This approach enables industrial growth in water-scarce regions and reduces dependence on external resources. “Water reuse allows industries to be more self-sufficient,” Peach notes, “rather than being fully reliant on external resources.”
Collaboration is key to optimizing water management and enhancing regional water security. Industries can work with other water users to stretch local supplies, reduce waste, and promote a circular approach to water management. Peach mentions that some companies are working toward net-positive water strategies through replenishment initiatives, offsetting their water use and reducing risk in water-stressed regions.
Technological advancements are making industrial water treatment more efficient. Membrane separation options like membrane bioreactors (MBR), ultrafiltration (UF), and reverse osmosis (RO) offer varied solutions depending on water quality goals. Granular activated carbon (GAC) and ion exchange (IX) are also crucial in removing contaminants. Digital tools, such as digital twins, simulate processes and optimize performance in real time, reducing energy consumption and maintenance costs.
Anaerobic digestion technologies are transforming wastewater treatment by recovering valuable resources. Solutions like Veolia’s ZeeDense and Cella maximize biogas production, helping industries lower operational costs and reduce their environmental footprint. “These technologies are not just about treating water,” Peach explains, “they are about creating a sustainable future for industrial operations.”
The news shapes the sector by emphasizing the urgency of water conservation and reuse. Industries must innovate and collaborate to ensure water security and sustainability. The focus on glacier preservation highlights the need for proactive measures to mitigate the impacts of climate change on water availability. As Peach puts it, “The time to act is now. Industries have the power to lead the way in sustainable water management and set an example for the world.” This call to action is not just about compliance or cost-saving; it is about securing a water-secure future for all.
