Ecolab, a global leader in water, hygiene, and energy technologies, has been ranked 22nd in the World’s Most Sustainable Companies 2025 list by Sustainability Magazine. This recognition underscores the company’s commitment to water conservation and sustainability, a mission that has already yielded significant results. In 2024 alone, Ecolab’s efforts helped customers conserve over 220 billion gallons of water, a testament to the impact of its integrated services and technological innovations.
Ecolab’s work spans various sectors, from healthcare to energy production, demonstrating that water conservation is not just an environmental imperative but also a business opportunity. “It’s incredibly rewarding to see how smart water resource management drives business growth and a broader impact in the world,” says Emilio Tenuta, Ecolab’s senior vice president and chief sustainability officer. This dual benefit—environmental stewardship and economic growth—highlights the potential for businesses to align profitability with sustainability.
The company’s initiatives have not only contributed to environmental conservation but also delivered substantial financial benefits. Over the past six years, Ecolab’s customers have achieved sustainable solutions valued collectively at $9.1 billion. This financial upside underscores the viability of investing in eco-friendly practices, a message that resonates with both corporate leaders and investors.
Christopher Beck, Ecolab’s CEO, emphasizes the critical role of water in global sustainability. “Just 150 companies can influence one-third of the world’s supply,” Beck notes. “That’s real power and real opportunity. And I believe we’re ready to meet it.” His statement underscores the immense responsibility and potential that lies within the private sector to address water scarcity, a challenge exacerbated by climate change and human activity.
Water scarcity is a pressing global issue, with more than 4.4 billion people in poorer countries lacking access to this critical resource, according to research published in the journal Science. Rising temperatures, driven by human activity and the use of dirty fuels, are intensifying extreme weather events like droughts and heatwaves, further complicating access to clean water. These challenges demand urgent and innovative solutions, and Ecolab’s recognition serves as a call to action for other companies to step up their efforts.
While large corporations play a pivotal role, individual actions also contribute to water conservation. Simple steps, such as rainwater harvesting at home, can collectively make a significant difference. As the sector evolves, the integration of technology and sustainable practices will be key to driving progress. Ecolab’s success story offers a blueprint for how businesses can lead the charge in addressing water scarcity, proving that sustainability and profitability can go hand in hand.