Building for a water-resilient future

Water is one of the most precious resources on our planet, yet it is often taken for granted in the built environment. From homes to commercial developments, buildings consume vast amounts of water daily, much of it wasted due to inefficient systems and outdated infrastructure. With climate change intensifying water scarcity and global demand continuing to rise, it is critical that we rethink how we design and operate our spaces to minimise water waste and ensure long-term sustainability, writes John Ridgeway.

Fortunately, solutions are already available. Innovations such as smart water management systems, greywater recycling and net-zero water buildings are proving that sustainable water use is both feasible and economically beneficial. Governments and industry leaders worldwide are taking steps to implement stricter policies, improve efficiency standards and promote water conservation technologies. However, more aggressive action is needed to ensure that every drop of water is used wisely, making water-efficient buildings the standard rather than the exception.

Water is an indispensable resource, yet its availability is increasingly threatened by factors such as climate change, population growth, and pollution. Buildings, encompassing residential, commercial, and industrial structures, are significant consumers of water. In many urban areas, buildings account for a substantial portion of water demand, placing immense pressure on local water supplies and infrastructure.

The environmental implications of excessive water use are profound. Over-extraction of water sources can lead to the depletion of aquifers, reduced river flows and the degradation of ecosystems. Moreover, the energy required to treat and distribute water contributes to greenhouse gas emissions, further exacerbating climate change.

Economically, inefficient water use translates to higher operational costs for building owners and occupants. As water scarcity becomes more prevalent, utility costs are expected to rise, making water efficiency not only an environmental necessity, but also a financial imperative.

Global initiatives and innovations

In response to this problem, various initiatives and technological advancements are paving the way for more water-efficient buildings. In Portugal, the AQUA+® programme, a voluntary scheme that rates water use efficiency in buildings based on infrastructural evaluation, encourages builders and property owners to adopt water-saving measures by providing a clear framework for assessment and recognition.

Similarly, Australia's NABERS Water rating system assesses the water efficiency of buildings, providing benchmarks that drive improvements. Buildings with high NABERS Water ratings often experience lower water bills due to reduced consumption and decreased operational costs related to water treatment and pumping. Additionally, these buildings may see an increase in property value due to their enhanced sustainability credentials.

Advancements in technology are also playing a pivotal role in enhancing water efficiency. The introduction of smart water management systems, for example, allows for real-time monitoring and control of water usage within buildings.

Governments and trade organisations are increasingly recognising the importance of water efficiency in buildings. The U.S. Department of Energy's Better Buildings Water Savings Network brings organisations together to discuss and demonstrate successful approaches to conserving water. This collaborative effort aims to share best practices and promote the adoption of water-saving technologies across various sectors.

Additionally, the Building Efficiency Accelerator, a public-private collaboration led by the World Resources Institute, turns global expertise into action to accelerate local government implementation of building efficiency policies and programmes. This initiative supports cities worldwide in adopting measures that enhance water and energy efficiency in buildings.

Strategies for enhancing water efficiency

To achieve better water efficiency, a multifaceted approach is necessary, encompassing design, technology and behavioural changes. Installing water-saving fixtures such as low-flow toilets, taps and showerheads can significantly reduce water consumption. Energy-efficient appliances like dishwashers and washing machines also contribute to water savings. Retrofitting older buildings with these efficient fixtures helps reduce demand and improve affordability, contributing to overall water conservation efforts.

Introducing smart water management systems also enables real-time monitoring of water usage, leak detection and automated control of irrigation systems. These systems provide valuable data that can inform maintenance decisions and promote efficient water use.

Collecting rainwater for non-potable uses such as irrigation and toilet flushing further reduces reliance on municipal water supplies. Greywater recycling systems that treat wastewater from sinks and showers for reuse, can also decrease water demand.

While the benefits of water-efficient buildings are clear, several challenges remain to hinder widespread adoption. The upfront costs of implementing water-saving technologies can be a barrier for many property owners and developers. While long-term savings are substantial, the initial investment in efficient fixtures, smart water management systems and greywater recycling infrastructure can deter widespread adoption. Government incentives, grants, where available and financing options can help alleviate these costs and encourage more developers to prioritise water efficiency in their projects.

Adopting smart water management systems also requires integration with existing infrastructure and ongoing maintenance. Without proper training and support, building operators may struggle to fully utilise these technologies. Manufacturers and service providers must ensure that their systems are user-friendly and offer comprehensive support to maximise efficiency gains.

All this means that water efficiency must be embedded in the DNA of modern buildings. The convergence of policy, technology and behavioural change will determine how effectively we can safeguard this critical resource.

Water efficiency in buildings is no longer an option - it is a necessity. With climate change exacerbating water scarcity, we must rethink how we design, build and operate our spaces to ensure that every drop of water is used wisely. Global initiatives, technological advancements and policy changes are making strides in improving water conservation, but as we have discovered - there is still a long way to go. The time to act is now, and every effort, no matter how small, contributes to a more water-resilient future.