Water is essential for the resilience of business. Climate change will introduce dramatic changes and deep uncertainties that will exacerbate the already deep water crisis. Today 45 per cent of companies report exposure to risks from water insecurity estimated at over US$ 425 billion. This number will only grow as companies of all shapes and sizes are exposed to these risks through their own operations or through water consumed across their value chains. The UN Global Compact CEO Mandate and its Water Resilience Coalition call on businesses to achieve net-positive water impact (NPWI) and water resilient value chains by 2050 to build resiliency for their own operations and the communities and ecosystems in which they operate. In doing so, these companies can make a demonstrable contribution to the achievement of SDG6: Clean Water and Sanitation.

This Academy session will highlight both the business case and the pressing need for ambitious action on water to support resilience against climate change impacts. Hear from companies who have taken action to achieve net-positive-water impact, and learn the steps your business can take to set goals and take action to become net-positive water impact.

During this session, you will learn:

• What achieving Net-Positive Water Impact requires
• What companies are doing to achieve NPWI
• Guidance and resources available to companies for achieving NPWI

Speakers:

• Prithi Sharma, Global Corporate Affairs Water Stewardship Lead, HEINEKEN
• ‍Paul Reig, Founder of Bluerisk‍
• Sarah Shadid, Senior Associate, Ross Strategic‍
• Dr Alexis Schäffler-Thomson, Engagement Manager, Pegasys‍

Moderator:

• Dr Amanda Bielawski, Director of Communications and Outreach, Pacific Institute