WATER ROADMAP FOR TR AVEL & TOURISM

WATER ROADMAP FOR

TRAVEL & TOURISM
AN OVERVIEW AND ACTION
FRAMEWORK TO REDUCE FRESHWATER
USE AND BUILD WATER RESILIENCE
December 2023
World Travel & Tourism Council 1
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CONTENTS
FOREWORD 3
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY 4
PURPOSE OF THE REPORT
KEY INSIGHTS
CONTEXT 6
WATER - A SCARCE YET VITAL RESOURCE
ROLE OF THE TRAVEL & TOURISM SECTOR
WATER USE IN TRAVEL & TOURISM 10
METHODOLOGY
GLOBAL FINDINGS
REGIONAL AND COUNTRY-SPECIFIC DIFFERENCES
WATER-RELATED RISKS FOR TRAVEL & TOURISM 16
WHY RESILIENCE MATTERS IN TRAVEL & TOURISM
WATER-RELATED RISK MANAGEMENT DISCLOSURE
TRAVEL & TOURISM VALUE CHAIN PERSPECTIVE
HOW TO REDUCE THE WATER FOOTPRINT AND ENHANCE WATER RESILIENCE 20
EXAMPLES OF BEST PRACTICE IN THE TRAVEL & TOURISM SECTOR
WATER MANAGEMENT ACTION FRAMEWORK
HOW DIGITAL TECHNOLOGIES CAN HELP
CONCLUSION AND A CALL TO ACTION 32
CONCLUSION
CALL TO ACTION
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS 34
ENDNOTES 35
APPENDIX A - METHODOLOGICAL OUTLINE 40
APPENDIX B - ADDITIONAL RESOURCES 48
APPENDIX C - GLOSSARY 50

This report was prepared by WTTC in collaboration with Accenture.

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FOREWORD
While the role of water in sustaining life and supporting economies is undeniable, the current trends
exacerbated by the impacts of climate change demand collective efforts to recognise its true value and
ensure the sustainable and equitable use of freshwater resources across industries and geographies.
Today, more than ever, we need leaders who are driven by a profound sense of purpose that goes beyond
profit margins and have a vision for a regenerative future. The Travel & Tourism (T&T) sector, owing to
its unique characteristics, plays a pivotal role in fostering connectivity and driving economic progress
worldwide. It is also strategically positioned to have a substantial impact on human health and wellbeing,
as well as the integrity of ecosystems.
The World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC), in collaboration with Accenture, joined forces to provide
data, share best practices and apply proven methodologies to address water challenges and inspire the
journey ahead. The Water Roadmap builds on the work of practitioners, researchers and water advocates
dedicated to drawing global attention to the urgency of adopting sustainable water practices. It highlights
the transformative power of data and technology to drive collaboration and informed decision-making.
It also provides Travel & Tourism businesses with guidance and tools needed to set water targets and
navigate their way towards long-term sustainability and resilience.
As water-related challenges continue to gain momentum, as evidenced by the success of the UN 2023
Water Conference and a growing interest from the investor community, we are committed to providing
further insights and solutions to foster a sense of shared responsibility for water resources within and
beyond the Travel & Tourism sector.

Julia Simpson Dr. Jesko Neuenburg

President and CEO, Managing Director & Global Travel
World Travel & Tourism Council Sustainability Lead, Accenture

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EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
PURPOSE OF THE REPORT
The purpose of this report is to emphasise waterI scarcity and resilience as two significant global challenges and to
highlight the role the Travel & Tourism sector can play in responding to the water crisis.
Specifically, the report aims to:
1. Provide insights into the Travel & Tourism sector’s global water use and highlight regional and country-
specific differences.
2. Summarise water-related risks and underline the necessity of strengthening the resilience and adaptative
capacity of the Travel & Tourism sector.
3. Offer guidance to Travel & Tourism businesses on reducing their water footprint and building resilience to
water-related risks.
4. Issue a call to action to Travel & Tourism businesses to set water targets, allocate resources for water-
related initiatives, foster collaboration, and report progress.
5. Underline the role of key partners, including governments, regulators, water management agencies and
basin authorities, in encouraging and facilitating water-related collective action on a global and local scale.

KEY INSIGHTS
The Travel & Tourism sector — which accounted for 1 in 10 jobs globally, 10.4% of global GDP and 8.1% of global
greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions in 2019 — uses between 3.5 and 5.8% of global available freshwater, which is
lower than many other industries. In contrast, the agriculture and food industry accounts for nearly 70% of global
freshwater usage1. Despite the Travel & Tourism sector’s relatively low freshwater use, it remains heavily dependent
on water and related ecosystems, and water scarcity or poor quality can significantly harm the customer experience
and pose a threat to the viability of tourism destinations.
It is therefore imperative for Travel & Tourism businesses to prioritise water, particularly in areas of high water stress,
for several reasons:
• High dependency on water (quality and access) and vulnerability to water-related risks,
• Local community impact, including improved access to water and sanitation, resulting in enhanced health,
• Reputation and stakeholder expectations to increase transparency and accountability for water,
• Potential to influence positive change and drive water excellence along supply chains and water basins,
• Long-term business value, resilience, and sustainability.
Addressing the global water crisis requires balancing trade-offs related to various water uses. This involves
implementing local, participatory, and resource-based approaches that align with broader UN Sustainable
Development Goals, such as promoting health and food security, eradicating poverty, and protecting and restoring
ecosystems. The focus should extend beyond conserving freshwater resources to also encompass sustainable
wastewater management, unlocking the potential for the generation of new jobs and revenue streams.2

I This report focuses on freshwater use in the Travel & Tourism sector. The terms “freshwater” and “water” are being
used interchangeably.

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While the water demand from the Travel & Tourism sector tends to be concentrated in specific locations and seasons,
it can exert significant pressure on local water resources, e.g., in highly water-stressed regions during the dry season3
or in ski resort areas reliant on snowmaking.4 At the same time, Travel & Tourism businesses hold the capacity to
inspire a circular and regenerative shift, which is essential to reduce their vulnerability and make a positive
contribution to the overall health and integrity of the complex system within which they operate.

Even though boardrooms do not yet fully recognise the urgency of the water crisis, the increase in extreme weather
events and climate change uncertainty underline the importance for Travel & Tourism businesses to proactively
navigate multi-faceted risk dynamics. Considering that highly stressed water basins often exist in proximity to
higher population densities,5 it is also imperative to underscore Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) initiatives.
Finally, recognising that food and agriculture account for nearly three-quarters of the entire Travel & Tourism
sector’s water use, further investigation is needed to identify the most effective approaches to reduce the sector’s
overall water intensity.

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CONTEXT
WATER – A SCARCE YET VITAL RESOURCE
“As humanity’s most precious global common good, water unites us all.
That is why water needs to be at the centre of the global political agenda”.
- UN Secretary-General António Guterres

The true value of water

Water, a vital natural resource, sustains life on Earth through the hydrologic cycle, powered by energy from the
sun. It allows ecosystem services and functions, plays a significant role in regulating the climate, and supports various
human activities. Although global water resources are ample, only 2.5% of the supply is freshwater (suitable for
drinking, growing crops, etc). The majority of this freshwater is locked up in glaciers, ice caps, and ice sheets, or
sequestered deep underground, leaving less than 1% readily available for human use. Therefore, the true value of
water, including wastewater, is often overlooked and its importance is not adequately recognised due to a lack
of proper policies, pricing, and incentives.6 In fact, the latest report from the World Wildlife Fund (WWF) has
estimated that freshwater economic value reached $54 trillion in 2021 (i.e., 60% of global GDP).7

Urgency of the global water crisis

Growing water scarcity has become one of the most pressing challenges for sustainable development due to
decades of inadequate management, underinvestment, insufficient transboundary collaboration, and deterioration
of water-dependent ecosystems.8 Estimates show that with current practices, the world is projected to face a
40% shortfall between forecasted demand and available supply of water by 2030,9 leading to increased global
competition for water, escalating tensions and exacerbating social inequalities.

Water-Energy-Food Nexus
Although “water footprint“ and “carbon footprint“ refer to different environmental impacts, they are related
in several ways. Many carbon-intensive activities, such as power generation, agriculture, and industrial processes
require significant water use (Figure 1). Some low carbon solutions, such as carbon capture and storage (CCS) and
nuclear power are also relatively water-intensive.10 At the same time, energy-intensive processes associated with
water supply, conveyance, and treatment contribute to greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. As an illustration, the island
of Aruba, due to a lack of its own freshwater sources, heavily relies on desalination plants leading to a substantial
carbon footprint, as well as risks to marine life caused by brine disposal.11

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Figure 1: Carbon emissions and water links examples

CARBON WATER

76% 12% 6%
Energy Agriculture Industry
3%
Land Use change
3% Waste
69%
Agriculture
19%
Industry & Energy
12%
Municpal
& Forestry

Low carbon solutions such as... Water availability & supply solutions such as...

Carbon capture and storage can increase water Destination requires 23x more energy than
withdrawals from 25% to 200% conventional water sources

Sources: WRI - World Greenhouse Gas Emissions in 2019 | Valuing Water, United Nations (2021) | IPCC Climate Change 2022: Mitigation of
Climate Change report (p.643)
Notes: Carbon emissions allocation percentages are based on greenhouse gas emissions reported in CO2 equivalents | Water represents
freshwater use.

The disruption of precipitation patterns and the water cycle caused by increasing temperatures is intensifying
both water scarcity and water-related hazards, such as floods and droughts, leading to emergencies in various
water-dependent sectors. While agriculture already accounts for over two-thirds of global water use, the increase
in income has resulted in a higher demand for water-intensive animal products, such as meat and dairy. 12 This
trend poses a considerable challenge to water resources worldwide.

Consequently, it has become increasingly important to understand the so-called “Water-Energy-Food Nexus”,13 in
order to tackle the multifaceted challenges and trade-offs related to sustainable and equitable allocation of water
resources across industries and regions.

The global water action agenda

2.2 BILLION 4.2 BILLION 3 BILLION Over 1000 children

People do not have People do not have People lack basic die every day from
access to safe sanitation handwashing facilities diseases linked to unsafe
access to safely managed
services water, sanitation and
drinking water
hygiene.

Source: UNICEF, WHO Source: UNICEF

In 2010, the UN General Assembly officially recognised the right to safe and clean drinking water and sanitation
as a fundamental human right,14 which has led to increased advocacy and efforts to address water and sanitation
challenges globally. Ensuring availability and sustainable management of water and sanitation for all (SDG 6),
has been listed as one of the 17 goals that provide a comprehensive framework underpinning the 2030 Agenda for
Sustainable Development15 adopted in 2015 by all UN Member States.

SDG 6 comprises specific targets emphasising equitable access to clean water and sanitation, addressing water
pollution, promoting sustainable management of water resources, protecting and restoring water-related ecosystems
and fostering collaboration (see Figure 2).16 In addition, SDG 11.5 and SDG 13.1 underscore the need for strengthening
resilience and adaptive capacity to extreme water-related weather events, which has become highly relevant,
considering that nine out of ten natural disasters are water-related.17

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Figure 2: SDG 6 and associated water challenges

SDG 6
Water Challenges
Clean Water and Sanitation
Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene People and communities lack sufficient access to safe and affordable drinking water,
(SDG 6.1 and SDG 6.2) sanitation, and hygiene.
Water Quality Water that presents health threats to humans and/or ecosystems. Water that is unfit for its intended
(SDG 6.3) use due to quality impairments.
Water Quantity Demand (human and environmental) for water exceeds the available supply indicating water resources
(SDG 6.4) are out of balance.
Water Governance The political, social, economic, and administrative systems which affect the use, development and
(SDG 6.5) management of water resources are ineffectual, corrupt, underfunded, or otherwise inadequate.
Important Water-related Ecosystems Water-related areas of environmental and cultural significance are degraded and there is a loss of
(SDG 6.6) freshwater ecosystems.

Source: Adapted from UN Global Compact CEO Water Mandate (p.14)

Water-related challenges have recently gained notable traction. For example, the UN 2023 Water Conference, held in
New York City from March 22-24, brought together governments, industry, and civil society to mobilise the resources
needed to address the urgent water crisis. So far, more than 800 voluntary commitments have been made to the
Water Action Agenda,18 a key outcome of the conference aimed at accelerating progress towards achieving SDG 6.
The direct financial impact of the pledges is projected to surpass $330 billion, with the potential to leverage nearly
$1 trillion worth of services for both humanity and the environment.19

Local and nature-based solutions to address the global water crisis

While water scarcity is an increasingly urgent global issue, it requires applying local, participatory, and resource-
based approaches,20 since underlying causes and specific challenges can vary significantly from one region to another.
In addition, there has been a growing global recognition of the importance of nature-based solutions21 as they hold
the potential to contribute to the achievement of most of the SDG 6 targets22 and provide approximately 30% of
the cost-effective mitigation required by 2030 to keep global warming well below 2°C.23

Nature-based solutions involve using nature to fix problems. For example, a village facing severe flooding might opt to plant a
mangrove forest to protect the coastline, rather than a man-made flood barrier. Nature-based solutions encompass any actions to
protect, conserve, restore, sustainably use and manage natural or modified terrestrial, freshwater, coastal and marine ecosystems
which address social, economic and environmental challenges effectively and adaptively, while simultaneously providing human
well-being, ecosystem services, resilience, and biodiversity benefits. Examples include tree planting, urban green spaces, constructed
wetlands, bioswales, and more.

Protecting and restoring water-related ecosystems can enhance their capacity to regulate water flow and provide natural
buffers reducing the risk of extreme weather. Nature-based solutions also address social vulnerabilities, by improving human
health and well-being, enhancing food security, and providing green jobs in sectors related to ecosystem restoration and green
infrastructure development.

ROLE OF THE TRAVEL & TOURISM SECTOR

The Travel & Tourism sector is one of the largest and fastest growing economic sectors. Its GDP is set to grow by
5.1% annually from 2023 until 2033, outpacing overall global economic growth (at 2.6% per year) and thereby playing a
pivotal role in driving socioeconomic development, particularly in highly tourism-dependent destinations. Yet, its
growing use of water resources poses significant challenges.

Even though the Travel & Tourism sector has relatively low freshwater use, it remains heavily dependent on water
and related ecosystems24 for a wide range of products and services. This includes obvious uses, like hotel swimming
pools, as well as indirect uses such as growing crops for food or clothing. Consequently, water scarcity or poor
quality can significantly harm the customer experience and pose a threat to the viability of tourism destinations.

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As the impacts of climate change intensify, the sector finds itself even more vulnerable to water-related risks.
Between 2015 and 2018, for example, prolonged drought in the City of Cape Town had a significant impact on the
region’s hospitality industry that led to a $65 million loss in tourism revenue.25 The Travel & Tourism sector’s water
use can also raise ethical concerns, such as water equity and environmental justice since the concentration of water
demand in specific locations and seasons might exacerbate water stress.

The remainder of this report looks at water use in the Travel & Tourism sector and explores challenges related
to strengthening its water resilience and adaptive capacity. Furthermore, it provides examples of best
practices along with further guidance to businesses on how to reduce their water footprint and strengthen
resilience in water basins.

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WATER USE IN TRAVEL

& TOURISM
Water challenges have both a global and a local dimension. In this chapter, we analyse global and regional data on
water use, water intensity and water stress using data provided by WTTC and the Ministry of Tourism of Saudi Arabia
(KSA).

METHODOLOGY

Data collection and modelling approach

The methodology for WTTC’s research, in partnership with the Ministry of Tourism of Saudi Arabia, into the
environmental impact and resource footprint of Travel & Tourism was conducted by Oxford Economics and is
explained in Appendix A. It details how water use (both direct and indirect) is measured and apportioned to economic
sectors following the International Standard Industrial Classification (ISIC). It also provides further details on the
water intensity calculation methodology as well as country specific income group categories.

GLOBAL FINDINGS

Water use

Water use refers to the water drawn from renewable freshwater resources (e.g. rivers, lakes, and
groundwater) by human infrastructure. It also includes the direct use of non-conventional sources (e.g.
treated wastewater, desalination), although this is relatively minor in most regions. It encompasses water
delivered through public networks, as well as self-supplied (e.g. by agriculture, for irrigation and livestock).
Data from the UN’s Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) is split into three main categories of water
use: agriculture, industry, and municipal (i.e., domestic & service-sector industries). For the purpose of
this report, these broad water categories are further split into more detailed ISIC (International Standard
Industrial Classification) industries.

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Figure 3: Infographic on water use in Travel & Tourism

Water use in Travel & Water use breakdown per

Tourism 70% water industry
Food & agriculture 73%
Water covers ~70% of earth surface
Travel & Tourism accounted for 5.8% of Other 7%
global freshwater withdrawals in 2019. Most
water use takes place in the value chain, Manufacturing 6%
Where available freshwater accounts for ~1%
through food & agriculture sources.
Utilities 5%

Transportation 3%
Water use refers to freshwater withdrawals
following UN FAO statistics and the industrial Hospitality 3%
1% 2% 97 %
breakdown is done based on the ISIC
classification. Retail & wholesale 2%
Available Unavailable Salt water
freshwater freshwater

T&T freshwater Water use per channel Total T&T Water intensity (m3/USD thousands of tourism GVA)

28.0 in 2021
withdrawals
accounted for 3.5% m3 of fresh water, billions
in 2021
3.5% While pre-pandemic 231
Direct T&T Water intensity (m3/USD thousands of tourism GVA)
withdrawal levels 195 18%
achieved 5.8% in 2019
18%
15%
14%
134
5.4 in 2021
105 19%
81% of T&T water 19% 14% Indirect T&T Water intensity (m3/USD thousands of tourism GVA)

22.5 in 2021
68% 15%
use came from its 66%
value chain in 2021 67% 67%
where food &
81% agriculture represented
81% , and
2010 2019 2020 2021 Total T&T Water intensity reduction 2021 vs. 2010 (CAGR)

-2 %
manufacturing & Direct Domestic value chain
utilities 6%
Int. value chain

Source: Accenture based on WTTC and Ministry of Tourism of Saudi Arabia

Yearly freshwater withdrawals amount to around 3.9 trillion cubic metres of freshwater every year,II equivalent to
one third of the volume of Lake Superior, or around 1.5 billion Olympic swimming pools.III Among all the industries
that depend on water to operate, Travel & Tourism has a small share. In 2021, the sector accounted for around 134
billion m3 or 3.5% of global freshwater withdrawals, showing a decline of 1.5pp and 2.3pp from 2010 and 2019 levels,
respectively (Figure 4). The latter can be attributed to the slower recovery of travel businesses from the COVID-19
pandemic, where 2020 reflected the lowest share.
As depicted in Figure 3, approximately 81% of the water used by Travel & Tourism-related businesses occurs
indirectly through their value chain. Among the different industries this sector touches, water embedded in
food and agriculture accounts for nearly three-quarters of the entire Travel & Tourism sector’s freshwater use,
followed by other categories (e.g., entertainment, construction, telecommunication), manufacturing (e.g., clothing
and accessories) and utilities representing 7%, 6% and 5%, respectively. Transportation and hospitality combined
account for just 6%.​

II Annual freshwater withdrawals‘ average from 2014 to 2019 according to the FAO (via World Bank).
III Assuming a volume of 2500 m3 for an Olympic size swimming pool.

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Figure 4: Evolution of Travel & Tourism’s share of total water use (% of global total)

5.8%
5.0%

5.0% 3.5%
4.2% 2.8%
3.0%
2.4%
0.9% 1.1%
0.7%
0.5%

2010 2019 2020 2021

Direct Direct + domestic value chain Direct + total value chain

Source: WTTC
Source: WTTCand Ministry of Tourismof
and Ministry of Saudi Arabiaof Saudi Arabia
Tourism

Water intensity

Water Intensity refers to water used per unit of value added per economic activity. Its unit of measurement is usually
m3 per USD

Global water intensity in Travel & Tourism has decreased across all channels over the past decade. As illustrated
in Figure 5, the international value chain water intensity saw a bigger fall from 2010 to 2019 compared to the other
channels. This might suggest that Travel & Tourism’s imported products need less water to produce the same
economic output, increasingly decoupling tourism growth from water use.

Figure 5: Travel & Tourism water intensity per channel from 2010 to 2021
m3 of tourism water use per USD thousand of direct and indirect Travel & Tourism GDP (2021 prices)

36.7 -2%

29.7
28.0
26.5 -2%
24.4
20.0
17.7 18.6

-2% -3%
6.7 5.4 5.4 5.6
5.0 4.2 3.9 3.9

Total Direct Domestic value chain International value chain

2010 2019 2020 2021

Source: WTTC and Ministry of Tourism of Saudi Arabia

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REGIONAL AND COUNTRY-SPECIFIC DIFFERENCES

Water use
While the sector’s water use is relatively low compared to other industries, the picture becomes more complex
when examined at regional levels and country-specific levels. Previous studies have shown that in certain Asian
countries, a tourist can use anywhere from 1.5x to 8x more water than a resident on a daily basis (Figure 5).26 However,
in Europe, the situation is quite the opposite. For example, in the UK or Spain, a tourist uses only about half as much
water as a local resident does.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), between 50 and 100 litres of water per person per day
are needed to ensure that most basic needs are met, while 175 litres per person per day is considered a realistic
expectation for daily use.27 However, in several parts of the world daily water consumption of less than 40 litres
per person is still common, which raises not only environmental but also ethical concerns regarding the sector’s
water use, and considerations of water equity, environmental justice and the rights of marginalised communities.
These observations convey an important message to Travel & Tourism businesses to help tourists review their water
use practices, and encourage water-conscious behavioural changes.

Figure 6: Water use comparison between tourists and locals per country
Litres per person per day
1,000
900
800
700
600
500
400
300
200
100
0
Indonesia

Jamaica

Thailand
Japan

Spain
Philippines
China

New Zealand
Malaysia
Egypt

Italy

UK
Mexico

Singapore
Fiji
Australia

India

Sri Lanka
France

Germany

Municipal per person per day (tourism deducted) Tourism use per person per day UAE
Source: Becken (2014)
Note: Tourism use per person per day denotes the direct water use per guest per hotel night

The regions of Asia-Pacific, the Americas and the Middle East saw their Travel & Tourism water use increase from 2010
to 2019 (Figure 7). An upward trend in international tourist arrivals to those regions could have been the reason behind
this (Figure 8), however Europe and Africa’s cases offer a different perspective. These two continents saw a yearly
average increase in international tourist arrivals of 5% and 4% respectively from 2010 to 2019, but experienced a 1%
yearly decline in water use over the same timeframe. This reinforces the impression that further progress in reducing
water use can be achieved by Travel & Tourism businesses.

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Figure 7: T&T water use per region Figure 8: International tourist arrivals per region
m3 of freshwater, billions Number of tourist in millions

+5%
+3%
744
136.2
107.5 +6% 491
+1% 360 +4%
-1%
40.8 46.4 +4% -1% 208 219 +2% +4%
29.3 27.0 152
8.8 12.8 9.0 8.4 61 73 51 69

Asia-Pacific Americas Europe Middle East Africa Asia-Pacific Americas Europe Middle East Africa

2010 2019 2010 2019

Source Figure 7: WTTC and Ministry of Tourism of Saudi Arabia

Source Figure 8: UNWTO via Statista 202328

Water intensity
When analysing water intensity across income groups, there is a linear correlation between water use and GDP. As
shown in Figure 9, high-income nations exhibit lower water intensity compared to low-income ones, suggesting
that more developed countries may have already adopted water management policies and conservation practices.

Figure 9: Water intensity per income group and water use per night comparison
litres of fresh water per USD thousands (2021 prices) or night in 2019

135.8k

103.6k
92.8k

45.1k
39.5k
35.0k
29.7k
18.4k 22.1k 20.3k

World High income Upper middle Lower middle Low income

income income

Water use per $1000 GDP Water use per day

Source: WTTC and Ministry of Tourism of Saudi Arabia

Note: Income groups are defined by the World Bank country classifications depending on the Gross National Income per capita.
Water use per night refers to the water used through direct and indirect channels to sustain a person in destination for a day.

Water stress
Baseline water stress refers to the ratio of water withdrawals compared to available renewable water supplies. Its unit of measurement
is a percentage and the ratios are categorised in five water stress levels, according to the Aqueduct World Resources Institute (WRI)
guidelines:
• Extremely High (>80%)
• High (40-80%)
• Medium-High (20-40%)
• Low-Medium (10-20%)
• Low (<10%)

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Travel & Tourism is a global sector that operates in countries with varying degrees of water stress. Figure 10 shows
that 68% of the sector’s water demand comes from countries facing “extremely high”, “high”, and “medium-high”
water stress levels. Although this proportion has been relatively stable over the past 10 years, the coming decades
may see a shift. According to the World Resources Institute (WRI), 25 countries are currently exposed to “extremely
high” water stress annually, encompassing one-quarter of the world’s population.29 However, projections suggest
that by 2050, that number could be closer to 60%.30
In addition, the graphs below illustrate that areas with high water stress correlate with higher Travel & Tourism
water intensity. This could be attributed to local agriculture practices, climate conditions, energy sources, and the
availability and quality of water infrastructure, rather than being solely tied to tourist-related activities.

Figure 10: Travel & Tourism water demand and water intensity per water stress levels
Billion m3 of T&T water footprint, by water stress level of source nation m3 of tourism water use per thousand USD of direct and indirect
Travel & Tourism GDP (2021 prices)
231 173

195 23%

29% 120
13%
67%
134
15% 68%
31% 105 28%
26% 68%
24% 16%
14% 68% 48
24% 37 37 34 35
25% 28% 28 25 26 25
24% 22
23% 25%
8% 8% 8% 8%
2010 2019 2020 2021 World Extremely High Medium- Low- Low
high high medium
Source nation water stress levels

Extremely high High Medium - high Low - medium Low 2010 2019 2020 2021

Source: WTTC and Ministry of Tourism of Saudi Arabia

Conclusion
Based on a comprehensive review of freshwater use in the Travel & Tourism sector, the following conclusions can be
drawn:
• Travel & Tourism represents a relatively small share of global water use compared to other industries. However,
it is highly reliant on food and agriculture products, meaning both businesses and governments must
work to ensure that local communities’ water and food needs are not compromised by tourism activities.
• Most Travel & Tourism activities occur in countries with “medium-high” to “extremely high” water stress
levels which correlates with high water intensity. This is likely to increase in the coming decades, as the list
of nations facing “extremely high” water stress expands as a result of climate change.
• Even though global water use in Travel & Tourism increased from 2010 until 2019, in some regions progress
has been made to reduce the sector’s water intensity, a critical step towards achieving SDG 6.
• Further progress in reducing water use can be achieved in the sector, as demonstrated by data from both
Europe and Africa, where water use has declined during the last 10 years, despite the rise in international
tourist arrivals.

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WATER-RELATED RISKS FOR

TRAVEL & TOURISM
It is crucial to strengthen the resilience and adaptative capacity of the Travel & Tourism sector. The following
chapter provides an overview of the current state of water-related risk management practices and offers insights
into the sector’s supply chain dynamics, in the quest for more resilient travel industries.

WHY RESILIENCE MATTERS IN TRAVEL & TOURISM

Tourism resilience refers to “successfully adapting to external shocks and crises in a way that results in a better
prepared and more robust ecosystem in the future”.31 From a water risk perspective, building resilience is critical
considering that most of the reported disasters, deaths, and economic losses caused by natural hazards in the
last 50 years have been attributed to severe water-related disasters (Figure 11).32 Furthermore, climate change
is increasing the likelihood of cascading effects of extreme weather events.33 For example, intense storms have
the potential to trigger floods and landslides, while prolonged periods of severe drought can lead to wildfires,
compromised water quality, and water scarcity.34
The growing number of intense storms, combined with increased economic uncertainty and the emergence of new
categories of risks35 emphasises the importance for Travel & Tourism businesses to proactively navigate risk as a
crucial step towards building long term resilience.

Figure 11: Distribution of reported disasters, deaths and economic loss by natural hazard type from 1970 to 2019
Distribution of disasters Distribution of deaths Distribution of economic losses
Total: 11k disasters Total: 2M deaths Total: $3.6 trillion

4% 6% 4% 7%
5% 3%

34%

91% 91% 93%

39%
35%

31%

54%
44%

2% 9%
6% 1%
16%

91% of reported natural disasters were 91% of reported deaths due to natural disasters 93% of reported economic loss due to natural
water-related were water-related disasters were water-related

Drought Extreme temperature Flood Landslide Storm Wildfire

Source: Adapted from World Meteorlogical Organization (WMO)

Note: Droughts, floods, storms, and landslides are grouped as water-related hazards.

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WATER-RELATED RISK MANAGEMENT AND DISCLOSURE

Building resilience is an ongoing effort that involves continuously monitoring threats, mitigating risks, developing
effective response plans, learning from disruptions and implementing resilience strategies (Figure 12). 36

Figure 12: Tourism Resilience Building Cycle

Understanding Risks
Building Long-term Resilience

Planning & Prioritisation

Response & Recovery

Mitigation & Preparedness

Disaster Strikes

Source: Adapted from World Bank

Depending on their vulnerability and level of exposure, Travel & Tourism businesses may be confronted with a wide
range of physical and nature-related transition risks (Figure 13), which can significantly impact their operations,
leading to increased costs, disruption, reputational damage, and a diminished tourist experience.37 38

Physical risks
Nature-related physical risks are a direct result of an organisation’s dependence on natural resources and
ecosystems. They are usually location-specific and can be categorised as either acute (e.g. event-based risks),
chronic (e.g. longer term shifts), or both.

Transition risks
Nature-related transition risks are risks that result from a misalignment between an organisation and the
changing regulatory, policy or societal landscape in which it operates.

Figure 13: Examples of water-related risks and their impact

Risk type Risk category Water-related risk Potential impact on enterprise value
• Weather and climate extreme events, e.g., temperature rise, heavy • Disrupted operations
Physical precipitation, floods, and storms • Deteriorated customer experience
risks Acute & chronic • Increased water scarcity and/or stress e.g., during peak travel seasons • Additional costs and investments, e.g., water pre-treatment
• Atmospheric rivers • Revenue loss
• Declining water quality • Reduced asset values
• More stringent regulatory frameworks and instruments to conserve water, • Non-compliance with new regulations and possible fines,
e.g., water withdrawal and/or discharge permits and allocation penalties, and legal expenses
• Mandatory water efficiency measures • Increased operating costs
• Restrictions on pollutant types and levels • Upfront costs to deploy new practices
Regulatory risks
• Abrupt increases in water tariffs and market instability • Temporary disruptions and delays
• Uncertainty impacting business planning and forecasting
• Missed growth opportunities
• Increased insurance premiums
• Growing stakeholder concerns • Damaged brand
Transition • Tensions between businesses and local communities • Loss of company’s license to operate
Reputation and
risks • Perceived or real inequities • Potential lawsuits and settlements
market risks
• Cultural values
• Water-related diseases
• Failures and malfunction of water-related technologies, including becoming • Increased maintenance and repair costs
less efficient or obsolete • Operational disruptions
• Cybersecurity threats due to increased digitisation and automation • Compliance challenges and penalties
Technology risks • Data inaccuracies • Loss of stakeholder trust
• Energy dependency • Damage to the brand image
• Aging or inadequate water infrastructure • Hindered innovation
• Write-offs and early retirement of existing assets

Source: CDP | WWF | UN Global Compact CEO Water Mandate | CERES | Accenture analysis

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For example, the financial sector is increasingly recognising the potentially material financial implications of
nature-related risks and has started incorporating water-related risks into its guidance and risk assessments.39
Simultaneously, both voluntary and mandatory sustainability disclosure frameworks are placing increased emphasis
on nature, including freshwater resources. Recent initiatives serve as examples of this growing focus and include the
following:

• Taskforce on Nature-related Financial Disclosures (TNFD)40 whose goal is to complement existing initiatives
focused on reporting climate-related information.
• Science Based Targets Network (SBTN)41 with a mission to equip companies as well as cities with the guidance
for setting science-based targets for all of Earth’s systems, addressing their impacts and dependencies on
nature.
• The European Sustainability Reporting Standards (ESRS), underpinning the EU Corporate Sustainability
Reporting Directive (CSRD),42 with specific focus on water-related aspects, as outlined in ESRS E3 Water
and Marine Resources.43
Despite observing an 85% growth in CDP water disclosure over the past five years, along with a 16% increase in
2022 alone, boardrooms have not fully recognised the urgency of the water crisis and the potential of tapping
into unconventional water resources, due to a lack of adequate economic incentives44 and a clear business case
for water-relative initiatives.

TRAVEL & TOURISM VALUE CHAIN PERSPECTIVE

The Travel & Tourism sector relies on an extensive network of organisations including suppliers and intermediaries
to provide products and services across a global value chain. The data presented in the previous chapter provides
clear evidence that the vast majority of the sector’s global freshwater use occurs through its supply chain.

As illustrated in Figure 14,45 certain industries are more exposed to water-related risks than others. However, the Travel
& Tourism sector’s unique characteristics make it highly vulnerable to water-related risks overall. Considering
that food production and agriculture constitute 81% of the sector’s indirect water use, targeted interventions in
these industries require the most urgent attention.
In addition, due to its close interconnections with other industries, even small shifts towards circular and
regenerative practices can catalyse changes across numerous public and private entities beyond the direct and
immediate impact of tourism activities.46

Figure 14: Material water-related risks exposure by industry (direct vs. indirect channels)

Source: Adapted from CERES (p.12)

Note: Based on the Sustainability Accounting Standards Board’s (SASB) Materiality Mapping, combined with Ceres’ and Investor Water Hub
analysis and classification of risks (medium or high).
* Hotels, Restaurant & Leisure category includes Casinos & Gaming, Hotel, Resorts & Cruise Lines, Leisure Facilities and Restaurants.
**Food Products category includes Agricultural Products & Services and Packaged Food & Meats.

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Conclusion
Building resilience and managing water-related risks are imperative for Travel & Tourism businesses due to the
growing occurrence of extreme weather events, the sector’s high dependency on freshwater, and rising stakeholder
expectations.
• Recognising interdependencies and gaining an understanding of supply chains and broader basin dynamics
are fundamental for sustainable water stewardship.
• Assigning a monetary value to water-related risks plays a pivotal role in securing buy-in from the C-suite,
prioritising water initiatives and facilitating communication with stakeholders, in particular investors.
• Considering that food production and agriculture constitute 81% of the sector’s indirect water use,
targeted interventions in these industries require the most urgent attention.
• With the emergence of new and interconnected risks, there is a compelling need for digital technologies
to cope with added complexity.

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HOW TO REDUCE THE WATER

FOOTPRINT AND ENHANCE
WATER RESILIENCE
Many Travel & Tourism businesses have already embarked on a transformative journey towards becoming water-
conscious and water-resilient organisations. This chapter highlights examples within the sector to not only inspire,
but to set a high benchmark for others. It also introduces the Water Management Action Framework to offer
additional guidance.

EXAMPLES OF BEST PRACTICE IN THE TRAVEL & TOURISM SECTOR

HOSPITALITY

Keywords: hospitality, Ecolab solutions, reduced water intensity, digital technology

Marriott International: With 31 distinct brands, Marriott International has a portfolio of nearly 8,600
properties spanning 139 countries and territories. Guided by its 2025 Sustainability and Social Impact Goals,
as well as the UN SDGs, the company commits to creating positive and sustainable impact wherever it
does business.

Each year, Marriott evaluates current and future water risks for the properties it owns, manages, and
leases using the World Resources Institute (WRI) Aqueduct tool. In 2022, this assessment showed that
approximately 42% of water withdrawals are from areas with “High,” “Extremely High,” or “Arid” baseline
water stress. To address this and meet the company’s 2025 Sustainability and Social Impact Goals, with
a focus on reducing water intensity by 15% from a 2016 baseline, several initiatives were implemented
throughout Marriott properties, including:

• The JW Marriott® Phoenix Desert Ridge Resort & Spa (Phoenix, Arizona, U.S.) replaced a large area of
grass at the resort with turf, resulting in estimated water savings of approximately 5.7 million litres
annually.
• Le Méridien® Maldives Resort & Spa (Maldives) was awarded the Green Mark GOLDPLUS award for the
property’s expansive sustainability efforts, which include a desalination plant that converts seawater into
fresh drinking water.

Throughout 2022, Marriott expanded the company’s water monitoring capabilities and significantly increased
data compliance requirements with the Marriott Environmental Sustainability Hub (MESH) to meet the
company’s sustainability goals and reduce its environmental footprint. Learn More

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HOSPITALITY

Keywords: hospitality, Ecolab solutions, reduced water intensity, digital technology

Six Senses: Operating 21 properties, the Six Senses brand (which since 2019 has been a part of
InterContinental Hotels Group) is known for its focus on wellness, sustainability, and enriching experiences.

All Six Senses properties have established a Sustainability Fund dedicated to projects benefiting local
communities and ecosystems. For example, in 2019, Six Senses Laamu launched the #ProtectMaldivesSeagrass
campaign in a partnership with the resort’s own marine biologists and the Blue Marine Foundation. The
campaign convinced almost one third of all resorts in the Maldives to protect over 974,000 m2 of seagrass
meadows and gained an official endorsement from the Maldives Ministry of Tourism. Further research and
efforts by the hotel in partnership with two more NGOs have led to the designation of six Marine Protected
Areas.

Even though this example does not specifically address freshwater use, it aligns with the SDG 6.6 target and
demonstrates that Travel & Tourism businesses can inspire collective action to protect and restore water-
related ecosystems. While seagrass has been often considered a nuisance, it plays a vital role in stabilising
ecosystems and building resilience to water-related risks by enhancing coastal protection. Seagrass also has
the capacity to store carbon 35 times faster than rainforests,78 contributing to climate mitigation.

For the past 16 years, Six Senses has also been bottling its own water at each resort, which eliminates the
need for transportation and use of plastic water bottles. Where needed, this technology is shared beyond
the hotels with the surrounding community. Inspired by Six Senses Laamu, 97 water filter stations have been
installed across Laamu Atoll, located in public buildings such as schools, mosques, council buildings and the
local police station, giving 5,998 people access to clean drinking water. Learn More

AVIATION

Keywords: air travel, reduced water intensity, washing aircrafts, process innovation

Air France-KLM Group: Air France-KLM is one of the leading international airline groups, serving over 300
destinations through its network of airlines: Air France, KLM Royal Dutch Airlines, and Transavia. The group has
found innovative ways to reduce the water intensity of its aircraft and engine cleaning processes, which
account for most of the group’s water use.

One example is the use of Ecoshine – an antistatic product developed by UUDS, which makes it harder for
impurities to adhere to a plane’s exterior. This reduces both the amount of water needed for each wash and
the number of washes altogether, as the aircraft is kept clean for longer periods. The cleaner is non-toxic and
96% biodegradable, and can be used with recyclable pads rather than pressure washers, increasing water
efficiency further still.

The result is unequivocal: each wash uses up to 99% less water. A Boeing 777 that previously took 12,000 litres
of water to clean, for example, can now be washed with just 150 litres. This change has saved Air France-KLM
13 million litres of water over the past decade. It has also helped the group to cut GHG emissions, as the
planes no longer need to be towed to designated hangars for cleaning. Learn More

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CRUISE

Keywords: : cruise line, wastewater treatment, reduced water intensity

Norwegian Cruise Line: Norwegian is the world's third-largest cruise line, operating brands such as Oceania
Cruises and Regent Seven Seas Cruises, and visiting approximately 700 destinations globally. The company is
continuously innovating and deploying new practices and technologies in support of its sustainability goals.

Norwegian aims to reduce its reliance on external water sources, particularly in high stress areas, and
decrease bunkering by 4% by 2025, compared to 2019 levels. Every ship in the company’s fleet is equipped
with at least one reverse osmosis filter and steam evaporator, which turn seawater into freshwater. Through
further upgrades and use of these technologies, the company achieved its target in 2022 of producing 90%
of freshwater onboard.

The company also deploys numerous initiatives onboard to conserve water and reduce overall consumption.
In 2020, Norwegian installed new water meters and plans to further expand the initiative to cover more
locations. In parallel, various measures were implemented to reduce water intensity, including a towel reuse
program, water flow reducers installed on sink taps and shower heads, and the reuse of AC condensate
for machinery, laundry, and deck washing. As part of the company’s policy to eliminate single-use plastic
water bottles, purified water is offered across its fleet which has resulted in the elimination of over 20 million
single-use plastic water bottles to date.

Norwegian is also well on track to meet its water quality targets of achieving 80% of wastewater treated
before discharge and a 9% reduction in the total volume of sludge offloaded fleet-wide compared to
2018 levels. To treat wastewater on board, all ships are equipped with Advanced Wastewater Purification
(AWP) systems and automatic stopping devices to prevent bilge water discharge if it does not meet
requirements, ensuring proper reprocessing or responsible landing ashore. The entire fleet is also equipped
with ballast water treatment systems to prevent the spread of non-native species. Regular compliance
checks and quality tests are conducted weekly by the vessel’s Environmental Officer, in addition to quarterly
tests and audits by third-parties. Learn More

DESTINATION

Keywords: : destinations, Spain, water digitalisation, water footprint

Spain and the city of Valencia: Spain, along with the entire Mediterranean region, is confronted with
substantial water challenges and is particularly vulnerable to the impacts of climate change. In response, the
country is actively involved in enhancing water governance, modernising water infrastructure, and deploying
innovative solutions to effectively address its water-related challenges.

One example is the recently adopted Strategic Project for Economic Recovery and Transformation (PERTE),
with a budget of approximately $3 billion through 2026, which focuses on the digitalisation of water
management. The programme involves installing smart meters and using big data and advanced analytics, as
well as monitoring water use with drone and satellite imagery. Learn More

As part of Valencia’s Sustainable Tourism Strategy, the water footprint of tourism has been quantified to
identify opportunities for advancing sustainable water management. The study showed that of total water use,
only 16% was directly used by tourists, primarily in tourist accommodation. The remaining 84% of water use
was indirect consumption related to the production of goods and services, and maintenance of attractions
and entertainment venues. Transport (public and rental cars) accounted for only 0.10% of tourism’s water
footprint. Learn More

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WATER MANAGEMENT ACTION FRAMEWORK

While there is no ‘one-size fits all’ solution, the following Water Management Action Framework (Figure 15) promotes
a systematic and iterative approach to understanding and navigating highly complex water-related topics.
The Framework outlines four practical steps to:
• Reduce the water footprint (direct and indirect), including water use, reuse, and discharge across the entire
supply chain, and
• Build or strengthen resilience to water-related risks by managing material risks, preparing for, and
responding to water-related emergencies.
Each step is accompanied by a range of detailed activities leading to measurable outcomes. The examples of water-
related tools, including models, frameworks, and standards that can offer further support to Travel & Tourism
businesses have been listed in Appendix B.

Figure 15: The Water Management Action Framework

Step 1 | Step 2 | Step 3 | Step 4 |

Steps ASSESS & DEFINE BUILD & ENABLE EXECUTE & MONITOR & REPORT
COLLABORATE

2.1. Water Governance & 3.1. Water-conscious

1.1. Water Materiality 4.1. Water Compliance
Stewardship Organisation

2.2. Water Skills & 3.2. Water-efficient and 4.2. Water Data &
Key Topics 1.2. Water Baseline
Capabilities Resilient Supply Chains Monitoring

1.3. Water Targets & 2.3. Water Intelligence 3.3. Collective 4.3. Water Progress
Strategy Action on Water Reporting

Source: Accenture

Each company’s journey is unique and starts from a different entry point, given varying vulnerabilities and exposure
to water-related risks, levels of ambition, and the underlying local context. Therefore, businesses are encouraged to
use the framework as a starting point to reduce complexity, spark ideas, and develop their individual response to
water challenges, rather than as a set of prescribed measures.
Several emerging practices to reduce the sector’s water footprint and build water resilience have been identified
within this framework. These practices complement measures already implemented across the sector and are
expected to increase transparency and accountability, embrace a shared responsibility, and leverage nature-
based solutions. They can be further enhanced by using digital technologies to improve basin-wide planning and
optimise water management strategies, including creating a market for water-related assets, reinforcing early warning
systems, and more.
Finally, the Water Management Action Framework is designed to complement the sector’s efforts to reach net-zero
emissions47 by shifting towards circular and regenerative practices to catalyse change and drive water excellence
across supply chains and water basins.

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STEP 1.
ASSESS & DEFINE
Overall Objective:
Understand the context, prioritise measures and gain the board‘s buy-in for water-related initiatives.
Key Challenges:
· How to model complex interdependencies with the limited data available.
· How to assign monetary value to intangible benefits and demonstrate the feasibility of water-
related initiatives.
· How to account for uncertainties and balance short-term and long-term objectives.

KEY ACTIVITIES:
1.1 1.2 1.3
Water Materiality Water Baseline Water Targets & Strategy
• Identify water-related dependencies and impacts • Quantify the water footprint • Set and disclose water targets
• Determine financially material water-related risks • Understand vulnerabilities and evaluate water • Prioritise measures and formulate a water
and opportunities resilience maturity level reduction & resilience action plan
• Pinpoint priority geo-locations, business units, • Select a modelling approach and establish • Develop a compelling business case for water-
and sections of the supply chain baseline values related initiatives and secure funding

1.1. Water Materiality

Becoming a water-conscious organisation starts with understanding where you interact with nature. This can be
achieved by listing and evaluating your water-related dependencies and impacts (positive or negative) both within
your business and along the supply chain. To assess and prioritise water-related risks and opportunities, the double
materiality principle should be applied. Examining the extent to which a company’s direct and indirect water use
affects ecosystems and people, as well as determining financially material water-related risks and opportunities
will help Travel & Tourism businesses pinpoint priority locations, business units, and sections of the supply chain
that require the most urgent attention. Frameworks and tools to support your water materiality assessment can be
found in Appendix B.

1.2. Water Baseline

Alongside the water materiality assessment, both the direct and indirect water footprint should be calculated. This
will allow Travel & Tourism businesses to identify areas of high water use, detect potential leaks and anomalies, as
well as unlock opportunities to increase water efficiency and promote conservation efforts within their own
operations and along supply chains.
This process will help businesses better understand their vulnerabilities and level of exposure to water-related
risks, as well as determine their water resilience maturity level. This includes evaluating potential impacts on
water availability and quality along with the resilience of the infrastructure and the effectiveness of emergency
response scenarios.
To establish a baseline, Travel & Tourism businesses should select a modelling approach based on the available data
and the characteristics of the water resource system, such as rainfall–runoff relation, green and grey infrastructure,
and the degree of urbanisation. There are several ways to validate the accuracy of the model, including external
experts’ input, benchmarking against industry best practices, and performing sensitivity analyses. Additional tools
can be found in Appendix B.

1.3. Water Targets and Strategy

Once the company gains a clear understanding of its water context, it should establish time-bound water targets
using a science-based approach (e.g. the SBTN pilot framework)48 and considering local settings. In addition to
the SBTN framework, Travel & Tourism businesses can use guides developed by the UN Global Compact CEO Water
Mandate (Appendix B). As part of the target setting process, it is strongly recommended to connect with key basin
stakeholders to obtain valuable feedback and initiate basin-wide collaboration.

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It is also advised to engage C-level executives early in the process. To secure the board’s buy-in, a compelling
business case and narrative should be developed. This might include setting an internal price on water to reflect
its true value49 if appropriate.
Given uncertainties related to climate change and the high complexity of water-related topics, any water reduction
& resilience action plan should be periodically reviewed.
Key Outcomes:
• Prioritisation of water-related goals and metrics
• Deeper understanding of the concerns and expectations of stakeholders
• Board level guidance and support

STEP 2.
BUILD & ENABLE
Overall Objective:
Establish a clear governance structure and build capacity to achieve water targets.
Key Challenges:
· How to align water-related topics with other sustainability goals and priorities.
· How to maintain effective communication and overcome resistance to change.
· How to stay attuned and agile to changing regulatory and market dynamics.

KEY ACTIVITIES:

2.1 2.2 2.3

Water Governance & Stewardship Water Skills & Capabilities Water Intelligence
• Communicate the benefits of becoming a water • Mobilise the team and set clear expectations • Leverage data insights to establish real-time
conscious organisation • Determine the extent of the skills gap control and reaction to water-related risks
• Integrate water-related risks and opportunities • Implement training and development initiatives • Identify and assess emerging technologies
into business processes • Monitor market trends and water-related
• Launch a pilot project to test ideas and build industry best practices
momentum

2.1. Water Governance & Stewardship

To build a shared vision and a collective effort to become a water-conscious organisation, it is essential to effectively
communicate the benefits of embedding water-related efforts into business strategy and day-to-day operations. It
is also crucial to ensure clear governance and accountability within the organisation and along supply chains, e.g. by
nominating a Water Focal PointIV and a dedicated team to oversee the project.
Obtaining a comprehensive and transparent view of water-related topics can be challenging, even within a single
entity. Keeping track of data might require access to a patchwork of different teams and operating systems. To fully
integrate water efforts, particularly into an Enterprise Risk Management (ERM), it is essential to break down silos and
have an overarching plan across the organisation, encompassing all systems, business units, and geographies.
It’s also worth launching a pilot project to test ideas and build momentum. The goal of this pilot scheme should be
to target and achieve quick wins to demonstrate feasibility and increase enthusiasm for water-related initiatives,
e.g. by fixing leaks, upgrading to low-flow fixtures, or adopting rainwater harvesting and drip irrigation systems. For
example, implementing an on-site wastewater recycling laundry system can help Travel & Tourism businesses use
up to 70% less water than traditional laundry systems.50 Furthermore, introducing towel and linen reuse initiatives,
along with the adoption of sustainable laundry practices can prolong the lifespan of textiles. This, in turn, can make
a significant difference, given the textile industry’s substantial water usage and environmental impact.51

IV The role of a Water Focal Point, whether situated within or outside the sustainability team, is to coordinate water-related efforts.

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2.2. Water Skills & Capabilities

To mobilise your team, it is important to set clear expectations and assign roles based on individual strengths.
Conducting regular performance reviews will allow businesses to determine the extent of their skills gap and lay
the foundation for implementing training and development programmes needed to build confidence to scale-up
efforts. Given the high complexity of water-related topics, cross-functional collaboration should be encouraged to
foster knowledge sharing and align teams within the organisation.

2.3. Water Intelligence

As highlighted earlier, becoming a water-conscious organisation requires collecting data to monitor water basins,
forecast water availability and quality, detect usage peaks and anomalies, and recognise known and unknown water-
related hazards.

Using earth observation and remote sensing technologies along with artificial intelligence, machine learning and
data analytics can help Travel & Tourism businesses anticipate threats, identify risk patterns, and ensure near real
time control and reaction to financially material water-related risks and opportunities. This includes implementing
automated and less error-prone processes informing natural disaster risk modelling and reinforcing emergency
management.
Building water intelligence capabilities can also help Travel & Tourism businesses better understand and influence
customer behaviour and stay attuned to changing business dynamics. It is also imperative to unlock links between
water- and carbon-related capabilities to better understand and navigate complex and interconnected risks and
opportunities.
Key Outcomes:
• Enhanced performance on water-related topics
• Prioritisation of skill and knowledge needs
• Strategic agility, speed, and efficiency

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STEP 3.
EXECUTE & COLLABORATE
Overall Objective:
Catalyse change and drive water excellence across supply chains and water basins.
Key Challenges:
· How to integrate new solutions with existing processes and systems.
· How to address the gap between what customers say they want, and what they are
prepared to spend money on in practice.
· How to navigate the balance between public interest and business viability.

KEY ACTIVITIES:

3.1 3.2 3.3

Water-concious Organisation Water-efficient and Resilient Supply Chains Collective Action on Water
• Deploy cost-effective, feasible, and fit for • Develop a code of conduct and guidance to • Protect and restore water-related ecosystems
purpose solutions catalyse change • Invest in nature-based solutions
• Implement measures to prepare for, and • Increase traceability of water and incentivise • Implement Water, Sanitation and Hygiene
respond to water-related emergencies water-efficiency (WASH) initiatives
• Raise awareness and encourage behavioural • Encourage suppliers to apply industry best
change practices and pursue certification

3.1. Water-conscious Organisation

To achieve their water targets, Travel & Tourism businesses have a broad range of solutions to choose from, including
established practices such as fixing water leaks, installing aerators, low-flow fixtures and high-efficiency appliances
(Figure 16),52 opting for push button or sensor taps and showers, and employing premixed hot water systems.

Figure 16: The potential of low-flow fixtures and high-efficiency appliances to conserve water

8-9 l/min 3 l/flush 60 l/wash 10 l/wash 1000 l/hour

Low flow Dual flush Class A washing Class A dishwashers Conventional
showerheads models machines (Eco programme) sprinklers

18-20 l/min 9 l/flush 130 l/wash 50 -150 l/wash up to 50% saved

Regular showerheads Regular models Regular models Washing dishes by hand Microirrigation controllers

Source: Adapted from EEA (p.61), Waterwise (relating to above infographic on Conventional Sprinklers), US EPA (last image on microirrigation
for reduction %)

Another example is sustainable landscaping, including planting native and drought-tolerant plants, mulching, using
compost to help retain moisture in the soil, and rainwater harvesting. As Travel & Tourism businesses progress
in their water stewardship efforts, they can begin adopting emerging approaches too. These prioritise increased
transparency and accountability, foster shared responsibility, and leverage nature-based solutions – such as green
infrastructure – to build water resilience. Circular and regenerative practices should be recognised, considering their
potential not only to decrease the water footprint of Travel & Tourism businesses but also to play a pivotal role in
achieving net-zero commitments by 2050. These practices should be accompanied by measures aimed at raising
awareness and encouraging behavioural change, including incentivising water saving habits.

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3.2. Water-efficient and Resilient Supply Chains

Given the vast majority (81%) of the Travel & Tourism sector’s global freshwater use occurs indirectly through its
value chains, collaboration with suppliers is vital. Food constitutes a significant portion of the total water use per
tourist per day, especially for water-intensive products such as cheese, nuts, farmed seafood, and meat. Companies
should therefore work to prevent food waste and collaborate with local farmers to encourage water-efficient and
regenerative agriculture practices and smart irrigation systems.

One proven strategy is to develop a supplier code of conduct. This document can define your core values and clear
expectations allowing Travel & Tourism businesses to establish a level playing field and drive water excellence along
their supply chains. The code of conduct might include specific guidelines, best practices, and standards providing a
basis for monitoring compliance and favouring suppliers who prioritise sustainable water management practices.
Additional tools can be found in Appendix B.
This will also allow Travel & Tourism businesses to develop new, water-conscious tourism products and practices.
However, companies should be wary of the discrepancy between customers’ declarations and their purchasing
decisions – the so-called “sustainability say-do gap”.53 Navigating this discrepancy requires a shift in business logic
that prioritises an innovative and collaborative approach within the supply chain.54
It is also vital to increase transparency and accountability by ensuring that all environmental claims and statements
are backed up with evidence, using third-party certification, and educating customers to make informed choices.
Digital technologies can help companies to trace the origin of their water supply, leading to more accurate
measurements and optimised water use along the supply chain.

3.3. Collective Action on Water

As companies mature in their water management practices, they start to assess the broader context of the water
basin in which they operate and engage in collective action with stakeholders.55 One example is the Forward
Faster platform56 and its Water Resilience target, recently launched by the UN Global Compact. The initiative aims
to guide companies and leverage the efforts of the UN Global Compact CEO Water Mandate Resilience Coalition57
in order to achieve Net Positive Water Impact (NPWI) in 100 water-stressed basins worldwide. By delivering NPWI,
companies not only reduce water use and build resilience in their own operations and supply chains, but also benefit
the surrounding communities and ecosystems.
Adopting the NPWI approach can help the Travel & Tourism sector demonstrate its environmental leadership and
strengthen destinations’ resilience to water-related risks. Leadership in this area can be achieved by addressing
the most urgent challenges and vulnerabilities, promoting an integrated approach to water resource management,
including supporting local water conservation efforts, developing resilient water infrastructure (both green and
grey), engaging in shared research and monitoring, and improving access to clean Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene
(WASH) services.58 One of the WASH initiatives worth considering is Clean the World’s Hospitality Recycling Program,
which allows you to conveniently review, track, and share results on a dedicated impact dashboard.59

While nature-based solutions may require extensive planning and permitting,60 the potential of Public-Private
Partnerships (PPP) should also be explored as a means of paving the way for a large-scale collective action in
water basins (see Appendix B). International organisations, governments, water management agencies, and basin
authorities need to take bold action to eliminate barriers, mobilise finances, and implement reforms required to
enforce integrated water resources management processes. Through concerted efforts, they can address the most
urgent water challenges and drive impactful change on both a global and local level.
Key Outcomes:
• Water efficiency and increased emergency preparedness
• Supply chain optimisation and resilience
• Positive impact on communities and ecosystem

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STEP 4.
MONITOR & REPORT PROGRESS
Overall Objective:
Provide stakeholders with reliable and relevant information on water targets, risks and opportunities.
Key Challenges:
· How to determine which metrics and indicators are the most relevant to stakeholders.
· How to ensure data accuracy and availability.
· How to present complex data and insights in an understandable way.

KEY ACTIVITIES:

4.1 4.2 4.3

Water Compliance Water Data & Monitoring Water Progress Reporting
• Understand obligatory requirements related to • Identify quantitative and qualitative water- • Align with relevant frameworks, standards and
water use and resilience related data points broader corporate sustainability goals,
• Establish a monitoring and reporting mechanism • Leverage technology and automation including UN SDGs

• Conduct regular internal audits • Collect data and measure water-related KPIs • Provide third-party assurance
• Establish feedback loops and drive continuous
improvement

4.1. Water Compliance

To ensure that Travel & Tourism businesses adhere to water-related regulatory requirements, the relevant
compliance mechanism should be established to understand the regulatory landscape and proactively monitor and
mitigate regulatory risks, including potential penalties within the organisation and along its supply chains. This effort
also includes maintaining a trail of documentation and conducting regular internal audits to identify potential risks
of non-compliance and areas for improvement.
4.2. Water Data & Monitoring
To effectively monitor and report progress towards established water targets, joint efforts within the entire value
chain are essential to collect and share accurate water-related data. Collaboration with suppliers and stakeholders
across the value chain and the water basin also allows organisations to identify data gaps and inconsistencies
and further align approaches and methodologies with industry best practice. Additional tools can be found
in Appendix B.

4.3. Water Progress Reporting

Reducing water use and managing water-related risks and opportunities can play a significant role in climate change
mitigation and adaptation. These efforts can also contribute to circularity objectives, and should therefore be
integrated with broader corporate sustainability reporting frameworks and standards, including the UN SDGs
(see Appendix B).
While preparing water-related disclosures, whether voluntary or mandatory, it is important to accurately determine
the scope and boundaries of reporting. Companies should undergo a rigorous internal review process or third-
party assurance (mandatory for the companies that fall within the scope of the EU CSRD) to ensure accuracy and
credibility of the disclosed data.
Sharing water-related data and insights demonstrates the commitment of the Travel & Tourism sector to water
stewardship and can inspire others to adopt circular and regenerative practices. Stakeholder feedback should be
used on a regular basis to refine the process and drive continuous improvement.
Key Outcomes:
• Increased transparency and accountability
• Evidence-based decision-making
• Performance benchmarking

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HOW DIGITAL TECHNOLOGIES CAN HELP

Emerging technologies, ranging from the sharing economy to the Internet of Things (IoT), autonomous vehicles,
blockchain, and artificial intelligence (AI) present a wide range of opportunities for destinations and travellers
worldwide.61 However, a thorough assessment should be conducted to identify technology that is fit-for-purpose
and compatible with existing systems. Companies should also assess the cost of deployment and identify risks such
as data security and privacy concerns. The environmental impact of digital technology should also be addressed,
following recommendations by the Green Software Foundation.62
Digital technologies:
• AI/ML: AI and machine learning (ML) can be used to analyse historical data, weather patterns, tourist arrivals,
and other relevant factors to predict water demand, optimise water conservation efforts, and build water
resilience. One example is the Google Flood Forecasting Initiative. Its ‘Flood Hub’ platform displays flood
forecasts, enabling governments, aid organisations and at-risk communities to take timely action.63 As
technology evolves, AI and ML are becoming integral for other systems and applications. It is therefore
important to incorporate “responsible by design”64 principles early in the process to ensure that solutions
developed by Travel & Tourism businesses mitigate potential biases, and uphold ethical standards by
promoting fairness, transparency and accountability.
• Smart Sensors and IoT: Smart sensors can be installed in buildings, manufacturing plants, and other facilities
to monitor water quality and use, e.g. to detect leaks or other anomalies. An illustrative use case is the
initiative led by charity: water in northern Ethiopia, in which 3,000 first-generation cloud-connected IoT
sensors were installed on water points to track performance and remotely monitor the functionality of
clean water.65
• Blockchain: Several case studies have demonstrated that the integration of blockchain and IoT sensors can
strengthen water security and promote sustainable and transparent water management practices.66 By using
blockchain, organisations can track and record water use data from various sources, increase trust, and create
new markets for water-related assets, e.g. water quality credits or wastewater cap-and-trade schemes.67
One example involves a collaboration between IBM Research, SweetSense Inc., and the Freshwater Trust.
The group has developed a pilot technology that can monitor and track the use of groundwater in real
time along the delta of the San Joaquin River, one of the largest and most at-risk aquifers in North America.68
• Earth Observation and Remote Sensing analytics: These technologies can play a vital role in monitoring
water basins to predict water availability and quality. They can also increase the accuracy of threat modelling
and enhance early-warning mechanisms and emergency management by combining data sets on nature-
related risks and climate change risks, which are often managed in isolation.
• Digital Twin: Digital twin technology is being used to create virtual replicas of water systems. These replicas
enable users to simulate and monitor processes, assess vulnerabilities, mitigate disruptions, and optimise
performance. One example is a model developed by ARUP69 that uses sensors across the catchment area
along with AI/ML to manage flood risks in real time.
• Extended Reality (XR): XR platforms can be integrated with IoT devices and sensors to visualise data, as well
as prototype and test solutions without the need for physical resources. This can significantly reduce both
the cost and environmental impact of new ventures. XR can also be used for immersive training and virtual
simulations to educate and inspire behavioural change, e.g. teaching new irrigation techniques. With the
growing popularity of XR in entertainment, there is also potential for Travel & Tourism businesses to develop
tools that inspire travellers to become more aware of the water crisis in new and captivating ways.70
• Metaverse: By creating immersive experiences, the metaverse can – in some instances – reduce or even
eliminate the need for physical travel, unlocking opportunities to make the Travel & Tourism sector more
inclusive and sustainable, e.g. by allowing disabled travellers to overcome physical barriers. It also offers a
platform to raise awareness about the water crisis. One example is the world’s first ‘Digital Nation’ concept
developed by the Pacific island nation of Tuvalu, to recreate itself digitally and continue working as a state
even after being submerged by rising sea levels.71 While some Travel & Tourism businesses are already actively
developing metaverse communities,72 it is crucial to integrate environmental considerations and capitalise
on the metaverse’s potential from the outset.

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Water-related, tech-enabled solutions:

• Smart irrigation systems: Modern satellite imagery and weather predictions, combined with IoT sensors
and AI/ML, can support more precise and informed irrigation decisions.73 However, it is important to
recognise that even small-scale solutions, such as timers or drip irrigation systems, have the potential to
bring about substantial change.
• Water harvesting and recycling systems: Water harvesting and recycling systems using smart sensors, IoT
frameworks and data analytics can be installed in buildings and manufacturing plants to capture moisture
and rainwater, as well as recycling greywater for non-potable uses such as landscaping or cooling. There
is also a growing interest in the development of atmospheric water harvesting technologies to produce
potable water from ambient air, as both emergency and long-term supply solutions.74
• Cloud-based water management software: Cloud-based software can be used to monitor water use across
multiple locations supporting businesses in tracking progress towards their water-related targets. For
example, the recent collaboration between Microsoft and Ecolab added new capabilities in Microsoft Cloud
for Sustainability. The purpose-built water data model provides a single source of truth through multi-source
data acquisition, allowing organisations to overcome water accounting challenges, track compliance with
reporting requirements, and generate custom reports.75 Another practical application of cloud technology
is the collaboration between Ecopetrol, Amazon Web Services (AWS) and Accenture to develop a water
intelligence and management platform that allows users to share data and promote water reuse within
and between industries.76

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CONCLUSION AND A CALL

TO ACTION
CONCLUSION
In spite of the growing worldwide recognition of the urgent water crisis, water-related challenges have not yet
been fully acknowledged. Most companies are leaning towards decarbonisation initiatives and meeting net zero
commitments – which, in turn, are often driven by legislative mandates. As emphasised in this report, water and
carbon footprints are intricately interconnected. Therefore, adopting circular and regenerative practices and
building water resilience can further support the Travel & Tourism sector’s climate change adaptation and mitigation
efforts.
The water intensity of the Travel & Tourism sector is determined by various factors, such as local agriculture
practices, geographic location, climate conditions, the availability and quality of water infrastructure, and energy
sources. With agriculture and the food industry significantly contributing to overall freshwater use in the Travel &
Tourism sector, these interdependencies should be further explored.

As water scarcity, pollution, and weather emergencies can lead to severe consequences, including increased
operational costs, disruptions in supply chains, and reputational risks, taking proactive steps to address water
challenges is imperative for the Travel & Tourism sector. While each company’s journey is unique, we have
introduced examples of innovative approaches and best practice alongside a tailored Water Management Action
Framework to inspire and guide Travel & Tourism businesses as they navigate their way to long-term sustainability
and resilience.
Digital technologies can play a pivotal role in water stewardship efforts. However, a thorough assessment is needed
to address security, privacy, and environmental concerns, as well as other risks associated with the deployment of
emerging technologies.
Finally, while collective efforts to address water crises are needed, it is also crucial to recognise the economic
significance of the Travel & Tourism sector, particularly in highly tourism-dependent destinations. Protecting and
restoring water-related ecosystems, reusing wastewater, and investing in nature-based solutions are seen as efficient
and cost-effective approaches to regulate water flow, as well as purify, protect, and enhance freshwater availability
in water basins. These actions can also directly benefit local communities, by providing opportunities for green job
creation and capacity building.77

CALL TO ACTION
Travel & Tourism businesses:
The actions highlighted below are crucial to catalyse change and drive water excellence across Travel & Tourism
businesses, their supply chains, and water basins.
1. Understand your impact and set time-bound and science-based water targets
✓ Use approaches validated by science, such as the SBTN and TNFD frameworks and guidelines developed by the
UN Global Compact CEO Water Mandate, Global Wastewater Initiative, World Water Quality Alliance
✓ Focus on reducing your water footprint in high water stress areas and the most water-intensive business units
✓ Address urgent water-related risks that affect local communities, ecosystems and the overall enterprise value

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2. Prioritise water-related initiatives and build internal capabilities

✓ Appoint a Water Focal Point and a dedicated team to drive a water-specific agenda and ensure buy-in from your
C-suite
✓ Build in-house water management expertise and request external support when needed
✓ Foster innovation and use technology to implement water reduction & resilience action plans

3. Fund water reduction and risk mitigation initiatives

✓ Understand your financial needs and develop cost-efficient initiatives to achieve water targets and build resilience
to water-related risks
✓ Implement water initiatives along your supply chain, prioritising the most water-intensive industries, such as
agriculture and food production
✓ Offer innovative, water-conscious products and services, and incentivise water-saving habits

4. Participate in collaborative water-related actions within and across industries

✓ Join industry-led initiatives addressing water challenges, such as the UN’s Water Resilience Coalition
✓ Support local water conservation efforts and maintain an ongoing dialogue with local entities and organisations,
including key basin stakeholders
✓ Get involved in inter- and cross-sectoral dialogues to learn from others, get access to the latest technological
developments, and explore potential partnerships, including PPP

5. Monitor and report your progress

✓ Ensure compliance with water-related regulations, and where needed, raise the level of ambition among Travel
& Tourism businesses
✓ Communicate progress towards achieving established water targets and disclose water-related risks and
opportunities
✓ Share best practices and lessons learned to inspire water stewardship efforts

Public Sector:

In addition to businesses, greater support from national and local governments, regulators, water management
agencies, and basin authorities is required to encourage and facilitate collective action in water basins. This includes,
among others, undertaking measures to:

• Foster cross-sectoral collaboration between key basin stakeholder groups,

• Reduce red tape and encourage the formation of PPP,
• Create a market for water-related assets,
• Establish water funds and water sharing agreements,
• Support the reuse of wastewater, e.g., through cap-and-trade schemes,
• Provide local, water-related green jobs opportunities,
• Share data and reinforce early warning systems,
• Raise awareness and empower people to act.

WTTC commitment:

As the leading voice of the global private sector of Travel & Tourism, WTTC will continue to support the sector’s
sustainable water stewardship efforts by providing data, sharing best practice and proven methodologies to
address water challenges. We will also examine innovative approaches and initiatives to embrace a sense of shared
responsibility for water resources and inspire further collaboration (e.g. through water-conscious hubs and
clusters, local markets for water-related assets, and water offsetting).

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ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
This report was developed by WTTC, in collaboration with Accenture and Oxford Economics.

AUTHORS

Christopher Imbsen
Director of Sustainability
World Travel & Tourism Council

Nejc Jus The Voice of Travel & Tourism.

Head of Research WTTC promotes sustainable growth for the Travel & Tourism
World Travel & Tourism Council sector, working with governments and international institutions.
Council Members are the Chairs, Presidents and Chief Executives
Beata Adamczyk of the world’s leading private sector Travel & Tourism businesses.
Consultant, Business Strategy & Sustainability For more information, visit: WTTC.org
Accenture

Jesko Neuenburg
Managing Director, Global Travel & Aviation Sustainability Lead
Accenture

Natalie Nehme In creating this report, the World Travel and Tourism Council engaged
Manager, Travel Sustainability Accenture to collaborate on the creation of a report with a focus on
Accenture water usage and resilience in the Travel and Tourism sector as well as
the development of a water action framework. The report is based
Philipp Möller on data supplied by Oxford Economics and secondary research.
Senior Manager, Travel Sustainability While this report draws on work done by Accenture, the policy
Accenture recommendations included in this report are those of WTTC and do
not reflect the opinions or views of Accenture.
Osman Ismail
Associate Director
Oxford Economics

DESIGN
Zoe Robinson PHOTOS

Cover: christinarosepix, ShutterStock; Page 2: Alice

Triquet, Unsplash; Page 3: Luis Celestino, ShutterStock;
Page 4: Alex Master, Shutterstock; Page 5: Rasto SK,
ShutterStock; Page 6: Quang Nguyen, Unsplash; Page
9 Ricardo Mayer, Shutterstock; Page 10: Olga Gavrilova,
Shutterstock; Page 16: Dear, Unsplash; Page 19: Yury
Birukov, Shutterstock; Page 20: Philip Schubert,
Shutterstock; Page 32 Roschetzky Photography,
Suttterstock.

We would like to extend our gratitude and appreciation to the following individuals and organisations who have
provided valuable input and support throughout its development:
Jonathan Mitcham (WTTC), Riccardo Zennaro (UNEP), Svitlana Mikhalyeva (UNEP), Bettina Heller (UNEP), James Sano,
Nicole Tanner (World Wildlife Fund), Claire Cutting (Marriott International), Jeffery Smith (Six Senses), Jessica John
(Norwegian Cruise Line Holding), Patrick Peureux (Air France - KLM Group), Renée Martin Nagle and Suzanne Reinartz
(Accenture).

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WATER ROADMAP FOR TR AVEL & TOURISM

ENDNOTES
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45 CERES, (2018). Investor Water Toolkit. [online] Available at: https://www.ceres.org/sites/default/files/
reports/Ceres_InvestWaterToolkit.pdf [Accessed 28 June 2023]
46 OECD, (2020). OECD Tourism Trends and Policies 2020. [online] Available at: https://www.oecd-ilibrary.org/
urban-rural-and-regional-development/oecd-tourism-trends-and-policies-2020_6b47b985-en [Accessed 12 June
2023]
47 WTTC and Accenture, (2021). A Net Zero Roadmap for Travel & Tourism. Proposing a New Target Framework
for The Travel & Tourism Sector. [online] Available at: https://wttc.org/Portals/0/Documents/Reports/2021/WTTC_
Net_Zero_Roadmap.pdf [Accessed 31 July 2023]
48 [online] https://sciencebasedtargetsnetwork.org/our-mission/issue-hubs/water/ [Accessed 31 July 2023]
49 Paccagnan V., (2022). Internal Water Pricing is Changing how Companies do Business. CDP. [online] Available at:
https://www.cdp.net/en/articles/water/internal-water-pricing-is-changing-how-companies-do-business [Accessed
30 June 2023]
50 Sustainability Hospitality Alliance, (2020). Business Case for Sustainable Hotels. [online] Available at: https://
sustainablehospitalityalliance.org/resource/business-case-for-sustainable-hotels/ [Accessed 28 June 2023]
51 UNEP, (2020). Sustainability and Circularity in the Textile Value Chain: Global Stocktaking. [online] Available
at: https://wedocs.unep.org/handle/20.500.11822/34184 [Accessed 19 October]
52 European Environment Agency, (2018). EEA Signals 2018. Water is Life. [online] Available at: https://www.eea.
europa.eu/publications/eea-signals-2018-water-is-life [Accessed 10 May 2023]
53 WEF, Accenture, (2022). How to Create the Sustainable Travel Products Customers Want. White Paper.
[online] Available at: https://www3.weforum.org/docs/WEF_How_to_Create_the_Sustainable_Travel_Products_
Customers_Want_2022.pdf [Accessed 10 May 2023]
54 UN ECE Committee on Environmental Policy, (2022). Applying Principles of Circular Economy to Sustainable
Tourism. [online] Available at: https://unece.org/sites/default/files/2022-05/CEP-SS_Sustainable_Tourism.
IP_.03.e.pdf [Accessed 9 May 2023]

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55 UN Global Compact CEO Water Mandate, (2013). Guide to Water-Related Collective Action. [online] Available
at: https://ceowatermandate.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/Water_Guide_Collective_Action.pdf [Accessed 28
June 2023]
56 [online] https://forwardfaster.unglobalcompact.org/ [Accessed 21 September]
57 [online] https://ceowatermandate.org/resilience/ [Accessed 28 June 2023]
58 [online] https://www.unicef.org/wash [Accessed 28 June 2023]
59 [online] https://cleantheworldfoundation.org/ [Accessed 28 July 2023]
60 Gartner T. et al., (2022). How Nature-based Solutions Can Protect Businesses from Water Risks. WRI. [online]
Available at: https://www.wri.org/insights/nature-based-solutions-business-water-risk [Accessed 28 June 2023]
61 OECD, (2020). OECD Tourism Trends and Policies. [online] Available at: https://www.oecd-ilibrary.org/
sites/82b46508-en/index.html?itemId=/content/component/82b46508-en [Accessed 28 June 2023]
62 Green Software Foundation, (2021). 10 Recommendations for Green Software Development. [online] Available
at: https://greensoftware.foundation/articles/10-recommendations-for-green-software-development [Accessed 28
June 2023]
63 Google Research. Flood Forecasting. [online] Available at: https://sites.research.google/floodforecasting/
[Accessed 28 June 2023]
64 Accenture, (2021). Responsible AI. From Principles to Practice. [online] Available at: https://www.accenture.
com/content/dam/accenture/final/a-com-migration/pdf/pdf-149/accenture-responsible-ai-final.pdf#zoom=50
[Accessed 11 July 2023]
65 Accenture. Data Science in Every Drop. [online] Available at: https://www.accenture.com/us-en/case-
studies/technology/charity-water [Accessed 10 July 2023]
66 Vanduwin Sitanggang R. et al., (2023). Blockchain and IoT for Drinking Water in G20 Countries: A Game
Changing Opportunity. [online] Available at: https://www.orfonline.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/T20_
PolicyBrief_TF6_Blockchain-IOT-Water.pdf [Accessed 10 July 2023]
67 2030 Water Resource Group, (2021). Wastewater Reuse Certificates as Tradeable Permits. A Handbook for Roll-
Out. [online] Available at: https://documents1.worldbank.org/curated/en/321971634109366996/pdf/Wastewater-
Reuse-Certificates-as-Tradeable-Permits-A-Handbook-for-Roll-Out.pdf [Accessed 10 July 2023]
68 IBM, (2019). State of California Tackles Drought with IoT & Blockchain. [online] Available at: https://newsroom.
ibm.com/2019-02-08-State-of-California-Tackles-Drought-with-IoT-Blockchain [Accessed 10 July 2023]
69 [online] https://www.arup.com/perspectives/digital-twin-managing-real-flood-risks-in-a-virtual-world
[Accessed 10 July 2023]
70 Queiroz A. C. M et al., (2023). The Efficacy of Virtual Reality on Climate Change Education Increases
with Amount of Body Movement and Message Specificity. [online] Available at: https://www.mdpi.com/2071-
1050/15/7/5814
71 Accenture. Climate Change Gets Real in the Metaverse. [online] Available at: https://www.accenture.com/
us-en/case-studies/technology/tuvalu-summary [Accessed 10 July 2023]
72 Accenture, (2023). Changi Airport Group Teams Up with Accenture to Launch Digital Wonderland ChangiVerse.
[online] Available at: https://newsroom.accenture.com/news/changi-airport-group-teams-up-with-accenture-to-
launch-digital-wonderland-changiverse.htm [Accessesd 24 August 2023]
73 Itzhaky R., (2021). How AI will Solve Agriculture’s Water Efficiency Problems. WEF. [online] Available at:
https://www.weforum.org/agenda/2021/01/ai-agriculture-water-irrigation-farming/ [Accessed 10 July 2023]
74 EPA. Atmospheric Water Generation Research. [online] Available at:https://cfpub.epa.gov/si/si_public_
record_Report.cfm?dirEntryId=343997&Lab=NERL[Accessed 10 July 2023]
75 Kareem S.M., (2023). Introducing Critical New Water Data Capabilities in Microsoft Cloud for Sustainability.

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[online] Available at: https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/industry/blog/sustainability/2023/03/22/introducing-

critical-new-water-data-capabilities-in-microsoft-cloud-for-sustainability/ [Accessed 10 July 2023]
76 Accenture, (2022). Ecopetrol, Accenture and AWS Work to Help Companies Advance Journey to Water
Neutrality Through First-of-its-Kind Open Platform. [online] Available at: https://newsroom.accenture.com/news/
ecopetrol-accenture-and-aws-work-to-help-companies-advance-journey-to-water-neutrality-through-first-of-its-
kind-open-platform.htm [Accessed 2 August 2023]
77 Cook J., Taylor R., (2020). Nature is an Economic Winner for COVID-19 Recovery. WRI. [online] Available at:
https://www.wri.org/insights/nature-economic-winner-covid-19-recovery [Accessed 28 June 2023]
78 [online] https://www.wwf.org.uk/what-we-do/planting-hope-how-seagrass-can-tackle-climate-change
[Accessed 3 August 2023]

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APPENDIX A:
METHODOLOGICAL OUTLINE

The environmental impact of T&T retail: Methodological note

The environmental impact of T&T retail: Methodological note

TRAVEL & TOURISM’S

TRAVEL & TOURISM’S
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT: WATER
ENVIRONMENTAL
USE IMPACT: WATER
USE
METHODOLOGICAL OUTLINE
JULY 2023
METHODOLOGICAL OUTLINE
JULY 2023

INTRODUCTION

This note describes the methodology for Oxford Economics’ research into the environmental impact
INTRODUCTION
and resource footprint of Travel & Tourism (T&T). Specifically, it details how the water use (direct and
indirect) is measured and apportioned to economic sectors.
This note describes the methodology for Oxford Economics’ research into the environmental impact
and resource footprint of Travel & Tourism (T&T). Specifically, it details how the water use (direct and
For further details about Oxford Economics research into the wider environmental impact and resource
indirect)
WATERof
footprint is
USEmeasured and apportioned
DEFINITION
Travel & Tourism, to economic sectors.
AND COVERAGE
see the Travel & Tourism Environmental & Social Impact Methodology.
The water use definition in this analysis refers to fresh water. It is based on water withdrawals
statistics USE
WATER from DEFINITION
the UN Food AND COVERAGE
and Agriculture Organisation’s statistics (UN FAO AQUASTAT). This
concept describes the water drawn from renewable freshwater resources (e.g., rivers, lakes, and
The water use definition in this analysis refers to fresh water. It is based on water withdrawals
groundwater) by human infrastructure. Our calculations also include the direct use of non-
statistics from the UN Food and Agriculture Organisation’s statistics (UN FAO AQUASTAT). This
conventional sources (e.g., treated wastewater, desalination).
concept describes the water drawn from renewable freshwater resources (e.g., rivers, lakes, and
groundwater)
These nationalbywater
humanuseinfrastructure.
data are split Our
into calculations
three broad also include the direct use of non-
categories:
conventional sources (e.g., treated wastewater, desalination).
• Agriculture: fresh water used for irrigation, livestock and aquaculture purposes. Principally
These national water (rather
self-supplied use data aredrawn
than split into
fromthree broad
public categories:
mains water networks).
•• Industry: water used by mining, manufacturing, power
Agriculture: fresh water used for irrigation, livestock and supply and construction
aquaculture purposes.industries.
Principally
Principally self-supplied.
self-supplied (rather than drawn from public mains water networks).
•• Municipal: primarily
Industry: water usedthe
by fresh water
mining, that is supplied
manufacturing, via supply
power public networks, to commercial
and construction and
industries.
domestic users. This subcategory
Principally self-supplied. is interpreted to represent water consumption by service
sectors1 and households. However, it does also include some water that is used by
• Municipal: primarily the fresh water that is supplied via public networks, to commercial and
agriculture or industrial firms (for example, those in urban centres and/or small-scale activities
domestic users. This subcategory is interpreted to represent water consumption by service
that use1 mains water rather than a dedicated self-supply).
sectors and households. However, it does also include some water that is used by
agriculture or industrial firms (for example, those in urban centres and/or small-scale activities
Given that this water use measure pertains to fresh water, it is broadly comparable with the ‘blue’
that use mains water rather than a dedicated self-supply).
water footprint, as defined by the Water Footprint Network. It does not include the other elements of
the WFN framework, such as green water or grey water.
Given that this water use measure pertains to fresh water, it is broadly comparable with the ‘blue’
water footprint, as defined by the Water Footprint Network. It does not include the other elements of
the WFN framework, such as green water or grey water.

1 Service sectors here refer to ISIC Rev.4 divisions 45-98.

1 Service sectors here refer to ISIC Rev.4 divisions 45-98.

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The environmental impact of T&T retail: Methodological note

The environmental impact of T&T on water use: Methodological note

We note throughout our reporting, the terms water ‘use’, water ‘withdrawals’ and water ‘consumption’
may be used interchangeably and are not intended to refer to different concepts. Where the term
‘water footprint’ is used, it is intended to mean direct and indirect water use (i.e., inclusive of the
‘embodied’ water in products purchased by Travel & Tourism from its value chain), it is not intended to
refer to the Water Footprint Network concept.

DERIVATION OF WATER USE INTENSITIES

The Travel & Tourism analysis disaggregates these three AQUASTAT sectors further, into the 34-
industry scheme employed by the Global Sustainability Model (GSM). This industry scheme uses ISIC
Rev. 4 based sector definitions.

To achieve this breakdown, the input-output (I-O) accounts of each country are used. These
economic accounts measure each sector’s transactions of various products including water.2 The
relationships described in them can be used to estimate how much of each AQUASTAT water
demand category is contributed by each of the 34 detailed sub-sectors.

This disaggregation allows for national water use (in m3 terms) to be allocated to the appropriate sub-
sectors. Following this, each industry’s demand for water was expressed as a proportion of their gross
output (in dollar terms). This is the water use intensity, measured in m3 per dollar of output or GDP.

TRAVEL & TOURISM WATER USE

Our modelling allocates tourist-related expenditures, sourced from OE/WTTC’s EIR research, among
the industries that accrue this spending.3 The scale of production that this spending stimulates, and
the water use associated with it, is termed the direct water consumption of Travel & Tourism.

The GSM also permits the measurement of the supply chain activity that supports this production,
both in the domestic economy and in other nations. The sum total of all supply chain activity linked to
Travel & Tourism, and the water demands of this activity, are presented as indirect or value chain
water use.

2 The product flows described in I-O accounts are measured in monetary values. These monetary sums also include imputed
values for commodities that are used by an industry but not purchased from an external party, i.e., those which are produced
and consumed by the same entity (e.g., self-supplied water). As such, the monetary values can be considered broadly
representative of total water use, including self-supply.
3 The expenditures used to define the Travel & Tourism sector includes all spending by inbound tourists and domestic tourists,
plus Travel & Tourism-linked capital expenditures by businesses and governments.

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APPENDIX The environmental impact of T&T on water use: Methodological note

Fig. 1: ISIC categories contained in simplified OE/WTTC results sectors

ISIC Rev. 4
Simplified category Sector Detail
Code
01-03 Agriculture, forestry and fishing
Agriculture & Food
10-12 Food products, beverages and tobacco
13-15 Textiles, clothing and accessories
16 Wood products and parts
17-18 Paper products and printing
19 Petroleum refining
20-21 Chemicals and pharmaceuticals
22 Rubber and plastic products
23 Other (non-metallic) mineral products
Manufacturing 24 Basic metals
25 Fabricated metal products
26 Computers, electronics and optical products
27 Electrical equipment
28 Other machinery and equipment
29 Motor vehicles and parts
30 Other transport equipment
31-33 Other manufacturing; R&M
Utilities 35-39 Electricity, gas, water and waste services
Retail and Wholesale 45-47 Wholesale and retail trade
Transportation 49-53 Transportation and storage
Hospitality 55-56 Accommodation and food services
05-06 Mining and extraction (energy products)
07-08 Mining and extraction (non-energy products)
09 Mining support services
41-43 Construction
58-60 Publishing and broadcasting activities
61 Telecommunications
62-63 IT and other information services
Other 64-66 Finance and insurance
68 Real estate activities
69-82 Other business sector services
84 Public administration
85 Education
86-88 Human health and social work
90-96 Arts, entertainment, recreation and other services
97-98 Private households as employers

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The environmental impact of T&T retail: Methodological note
The environmental impact of T&T on water use: Methodological note
Fig. 2: Income category and regional classifications used in the study

ISO Code Country Region (WTTC) Income Category (World Bank 2022-23)
REU Reunion Africa High income
SYC Seychelles Africa High income
ANG Anguilla Americas High income
ATG Antigua And Barbuda Americas High income
ABW Aruba Americas High income
BRB Barbados Americas High income
BMU Bermuda Americas High income
VUK British Virgin Islands Americas High income
CAN Canada Americas High income
CYM Cayman Islands Americas High income
CHL Chile Americas High income
CUW Curacao Americas High income
GLP Guadeloupe Americas High income
MTQ Martinique Americas High income
PAN Panama Americas High income
PRI Puerto Rico Americas High income
KNA St. Kitts and Nevis Americas High income
BHS The Bahamas Americas High income
TTO Trinidad And Tobago Americas High income
USA United States Americas High income
URY Uruguay Americas High income
VIR US Virgin Islands Americas High income
AUS Australia Asia-Pacific High income
BRN Brunei Asia-Pacific High income
HKG Hong Kong Asia-Pacific High income
JPN Japan Asia-Pacific High income
MAC Macao Asia-Pacific High income
NZL New Zealand Asia-Pacific High income
SGP Singapore Asia-Pacific High income
KOR South Korea Asia-Pacific High income
TWN Taiwan Asia-Pacific High income
AUT Austria Europe High income
BEL Belgium Europe High income
HRV Croatia Europe High income
CYP Cyprus Europe High income
CZE Czechia Europe High income
DNK Denmark Europe High income
EST Estonia Europe High income
FIN Finland Europe High income
FRA France Europe High income
DEU Germany Europe High income
GRC Greece Europe High income
HUN Hungary Europe High income
ISL Iceland Europe High income
IRL Ireland Europe High income
ITA Italy Europe High income

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The environmental impact of T&T retail: Methodological note

The environmental impact of T&T on water use: Methodological note

ISO Code Country Region (WTTC) Income Category (World Bank 2022-23)
LVA Latvia Europe High income
LTU Lithuania Europe High income
LUX Luxembourg Europe High income
MLT Malta Europe High income
NLD Netherlands Europe High income
NOR Norway Europe High income
POL Poland Europe High income
PRT Portugal Europe High income
ROU Romania Europe High income
SVK Slovak Republic Europe High income
SVN Slovenia Europe High income
ESP Spain Europe High income
SWE Sweden Europe High income
CHE Switzerland Europe High income
GBR United Kingdom Europe High income
BHR Bahrain Middle East High income
ISR Israel Middle East High income
KWT Kuwait Middle East High income
OMN Oman Middle East High income
QAT Qatar Middle East High income
SAU Saudi Arabia Middle East High income
ARE United Arab Emirates Middle East High income
BWA Botswana Africa Upper middle income
GAB Gabon Africa Upper middle income
LBY Libya Africa Upper middle income
MUS Mauritius Africa Upper middle income
NAM Namibia Africa Upper middle income
ZAF South Africa Africa Upper middle income
ARG Argentina Americas Upper middle income
BLZ Belize Americas Upper middle income
BRA Brazil Americas Upper middle income
COL Colombia Americas Upper middle income
CRI Costa Rica Americas Upper middle income
CUB Cuba Americas Upper middle income
DMA Dominica Americas Upper middle income
DOM Dominican Republic Americas Upper middle income
ECU Ecuador Americas Upper middle income
GRD Grenada Americas Upper middle income
GTM Guatemala Americas Upper middle income
GUY Guyana Americas Upper middle income
JAM Jamaica Americas Upper middle income
MEX Mexico Americas Upper middle income
PRY Paraguay Americas Upper middle income
PER Peru Americas Upper middle income
LCA St. Lucia Americas Upper middle income
VCT St. Vincent and the Grenadines Americas Upper middle income
SUR Suriname Americas Upper middle income
VEN Venezuela Americas Upper middle income

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The environmental impact of T&T retail: Methodological note

The environmental impact of T&T on water use : Methodological note

ISO Code Country Region (WTTC) Income Category (World Bank 2022-23)
CHN China Asia-Pacific Upper middle income
FJI Fiji Asia-Pacific Upper middle income
KAZ Kazakhstan Asia-Pacific Upper middle income
MYS Malaysia Asia-Pacific Upper middle income
MDV Maldives Asia-Pacific Upper middle income
n/a Other Oceanic States Asia-Pacific Upper middle income
THA Thailand Asia-Pacific Upper middle income
TON Tonga Asia-Pacific Upper middle income
ALB Albania Europe Upper middle income
ARM Armenia Europe Upper middle income
AZE Azerbaijan Europe Upper middle income
BLR Belarus Europe Upper middle income
BIH Bosnia and Herzegovina Europe Upper middle income
BGR Bulgaria Europe Upper middle income
GEO Georgia Europe Upper middle income
MDA Moldova Europe Upper middle income
MNE Montenegro Europe Upper middle income
MKD North Macedonia Europe Upper middle income
RUS Russia Europe Upper middle income
SRB Serbia Europe Upper middle income
TUR Türkiye Europe Upper middle income
IRQ Iraq Middle East Upper middle income
JOR Jordan Middle East Upper middle income
DZA Algeria Africa Lower middle income
AGO Angola Africa Lower middle income
BEN Benin Africa Lower middle income
CMR Cameroon Africa Lower middle income
CPV Cape Verde Africa Lower middle income
COM Comoros Africa Lower middle income
CIV Cote d'Ivoire Africa Lower middle income
EGY Egypt Africa Lower middle income
SWZ eSwatini Africa Lower middle income
GHA Ghana Africa Lower middle income
KEN Kenya Africa Lower middle income
LSO Lesotho Africa Lower middle income
MAR Morocco Africa Lower middle income
NGA Nigeria Africa Lower middle income
COG Republic of Congo Africa Lower middle income
STP Sao Tome and Principe Africa Lower middle income
SEN Senegal Africa Lower middle income
TZA Tanzania Africa Lower middle income
TUN Tunisia Africa Lower middle income
ZWE Zimbabwe Africa Lower middle income
BOL Bolivia Americas Lower middle income
SLV El Salvador Americas Lower middle income
HTI Haiti Americas Lower middle income
HND Honduras Americas Lower middle income
NIC Nicaragua Americas Lower middle income

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The environmental impact of T&T retail: Methodological note

The environmental impact of T&T on water use: Methodological note

ISO Code Country Region (WTTC) Income Category (World Bank 2022-23)
BGD Bangladesh Asia-Pacific Lower middle income
KHM Cambodia Asia-Pacific Lower middle income
IND India Asia-Pacific Lower middle income
IDN Indonesia Asia-Pacific Lower middle income
KIR Kiribati Asia-Pacific Lower middle income
KGZ Kyrgyzstan Asia-Pacific Lower middle income
LAO Laos Asia-Pacific Lower middle income
MNG Mongolia Asia-Pacific Lower middle income
MMR Myanmar Asia-Pacific Lower middle income
NPL Nepal Asia-Pacific Lower middle income
PAK Pakistan Asia-Pacific Lower middle income
PNG Papua New Guinea Asia-Pacific Lower middle income
PHL Philippines Asia-Pacific Lower middle income
SLB Solomon Islands Asia-Pacific Lower middle income
LKA Sri Lanka Asia-Pacific Lower middle income
TJK Tajikistan Asia-Pacific Lower middle income
UZB Uzbekistan Asia-Pacific Lower middle income
VUT Vanuatu Asia-Pacific Lower middle income
VNM Vietnam Asia-Pacific Lower middle income
UKR Ukraine Europe Lower middle income
LBN Lebanon Lebanon Lower middle income
IRN Iran Middle East Lower middle income
BFA Burkina Faso Africa Low income
BDI Burundi Africa Low income
CAF Central African Republic Africa Low income
TCD Chad Africa Low income
COD DR Congo Africa Low income
ETH Ethiopia Africa Low income
GIN Guinea Africa Low income
MDG Madagascar Africa Low income
MWI Malawi Africa Low income
MLI Mali Africa Low income
MOZ Mozambique Africa Low income
NER Niger Africa Low income
RWA Rwanda Africa Low income
SLE Sierra Leone Africa Low income
SDN Sudan Africa Low income
GMB The Gambia Africa Low income
TGO Togo Africa Low income
UGA Uganda Africa Low income
ZMB Zambia Africa Low income
SYR Syria Middle East Low income
YEM Yemen Middle East Low income

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The environmental impact of T&T retail: Methodological note

The environmental impact of T&T on water use: Methodological note

July 2023

All data shown in tables and charts are Oxford Economics’ own data, except where otherwise stated
and cited in footnotes, and are copyright © Oxford Economics Ltd.

This methodology report is confidential to the World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC) and may
not be published or distributed without their prior written permission.

The modelling and results presented here are based on information provided by third parties, upon
which Oxford Economics has relied in producing its report and forecasts in good faith. Any
subsequent revision or update of those data will affect the assessments and projections shown.

To discuss the report further please contact:

Osman Ismail, [email protected]

Associate Director, Oxford Economics,
4 Millbank, London SW1P 3JA, UK

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APPENDIX B:
ADDITIONAL RESOURCES
The examples of water-related tools, including models, frameworks, and standards that can offer further
support to T&T Businesses.
Step 1 ASSESS & DEFINE
Ceres Aqua Gauge Link

WRI Aqueduct Data tools Link

Freshwater Health Index Link

SHA – Destination Water Stress Index Link

(DWRI)

Natural Capital Protocol Link

WWF Water Risk Filter Link

Ecolab Water Risk Monetizer Link

ISO 14046:2014 Water Footprint Link

Water Footprint Assessment Manual Link

LEED Indoor Water Use Reduction Link

Calculator

Living Building Challenge (Water Link

Petal)

SHA – Hotel Water Measurement Link

Initiative (HWMI)

UN Global Compact CEO Water Link

Mandate guides on setting water
Link
targets

Science Based Targets for Nature - Link

Freshwater

SHA – Business Case for Sustainable Link

Hotels

Alliance for Water Stewardship Link

Sandard (AWS Standard)

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Step 3 EXECUTE & COLLABORATE

Global Sustainable Tourism Council Link
Certification

Alliance for Water Stewardship Link

Standard (AWS Standard)

The EPA WaterSense Label Link

Water Aid WASH Supply Chain Tools Link

(2021)

World Bank Water & Sanitation PPP Link

Toolkits

UN Water Action Hub Link

Step 4 MONITOR & REPORT

WBCSD Circular Transition Indicators​ Link
(CTI) Tool
SHA – Hotel Water Measurement Link
Initiative (HWMI)

CDP Water Security Questionnaire and Link

Water Impact Index
Link
Taskforce on Nature-related Financial Link
Disclosures (TFND)

IFRS S1 General Requirements for Link

Disclosure of Sustainability-related
Financial Information

Global Reporting Initiative Link

UN Sustainable Development Goals Link

European Sustainability Reporting Link

Standards

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APPENDIX C:
GLOSSARY

Appendix C: GLOSSARY
Term Defini*on Source
Ballast water Ballast water is pumped in to maintain safe opera2ng condi2ons throughout a voyage. While essen2al IMO
for safe and efficient modern shipping opera2ons, it may pose serious ecological, economic and
health problems due to the mul2tude of marine species carried in ships’ ballast water.
Baseline Value of impacts (on nature) or state (of nature) against which an actor’s targets are assessed in a SBTN
par2cular previous year or par2cular previous years.
Baseline water Baseline water stress refers to the ra2o of water withdrawals compared to available renewable water Adapted from
stress supplies. Its unit of measurement is as a percentage and the ra2os are categorised in five water stress WRI
levels, according to the Aqueduct World Resources Ins2tute (WRI) guidelines:
• Extremely High (>80%)
• High (40-80%)
• Medium-High (20-40%)
Corporate water The corporate water footprint is defined as the total volume of freshwater that is used directly (in the Adapted from
footprint company’s opera2ons) and indirectly to run and support a business throughout its en2re value chain Water
(including produc2on of raw materials, components, and intermediate goods, transporta2on, Footprint
packaging, and distribu2on). Network & UN
It is divided into three components: CEO Water
• Blue Water – the volume of consump2ve water use taken from surface waters and aquifers, Mandate
• Green Water – the volume of evapora2ve flows (found in soils rather than major bodies of water)
used,
• Grey water – the theore2cal volume of water needed to dilute pollutants discharged to water
bodies to the extent that they do not exceed minimum regulatory standards.
Dependencies Aspects of nature’s contribu2ons to people that a person or organisa2on relies on to SBTN
func2on, including water flow and quality regula2on; regula2on of hazards like fires and floods;
pollina2on; carbon sequestra2on.
Double Double materiality is the union (in mathema2cal terms, i.e. union of two sets, not intersec2on) of EFRAG
materiality impact materiality and financial materiality. A sustainability topic or informa2on meets the criteria of
double materiality if it is material from the impact perspec2ve or from the financial perspec2ve or
from both of these two perspec2ves.
Early warning An integrated system of hazard monitoring, forecas2ng and predic2on, disaster risk assessment, UNDRR
system communica2on and preparedness ac2vi2es systems and processes that enables individuals,
communi2es, governments, businesses and others to take 2mely ac2on to reduce disaster risks in
advance of hazardous events.
Ecosystem A dynamic complex of plant, animal, and microorganism communi2es and the non-living SBTN
environment interac2ng as a func2onal unit. Within this defini2on, the term “unit” relies on the
iden2fica2on of a dis2nct func2on as well as a “dynamic” grouping of bio2c and abio2c factors.
Freshwater Naturally occurring water on the Earth's surface with a low concentra2on of dissolved solids, Adapted from
including salt, e.g. in ice sheets, ice caps, glaciers, icebergs, bogs, ponds, lakes, rivers and streams. ESRS E3
This surface water source includes water of a quality generally acceptable for, or requiring minimal
treatment to be acceptable for, domes2c, municipal or agricultural uses.
Groundwater Water, which is being held in, and can be recovered from, an underground forma2on. Renewable ESRS E3
(renewable and groundwater sources can be replenished within 50 years and are usually located at shallow depths.
non-renewable) Non-renewable groundwater has a negligible rate of natural recharge on the human 2mescale (more
than 50 years) and is generally located at deeper depths than renewable groundwater; this is
some2mes referred to as ‘fossil’ water.
Impacts Can be posi2ve or nega2ve contribu2ons of a company or other actor toward SBTN
the state of nature, including pollu2on of air, water, or soil; fragmenta2on or disrup2on of ecosystems
and habitats for nonhuman species; and altera2on of ecosystem processes.
Integrated Water A process that promotes the coordinated development and management of water, land, and related Global Water
Resources resources in order to maximise economic and social welfare in an equitable manner without Partnership
Management compromising the sustainability of vital ecosystems and the environment. 2000
(IWRM)
Materiality A way of dis2nguishing importance or significance. SBTN
Nature based NbS include ac2ons to protect, conserve, restore, sustainably use, and manage natural or modified UNEP
soluDons (NbS) terrestrial, freshwater, coastal and marine ecosystems which address social, economic, and
environmental challenges effec2vely and adap2vely, while simultaneously providing human well-
being, ecosystem services, resilience, and biodiversity benefits.

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Nature related Poten2al threats posed to an organisa2on linked to their and wider society’s dependencies on nature TNFD
risks and nature impacts. These can derive from physical, transi2on and systemic risks.
Net PosiDve NPWI is an enterprise ambi2on that manifests in water-stressed basins to create impact where it Adapted from
Water Impact makers most. Delivering NPWI contributes toward reducing water stress in its three dimensions: Water
(NPWI) availability (quan2ty), quality, and access. NPWI is quan2fiable against the three dimensions of water Resilience
stress, aligns with established methodologies (e.g. context and science-based water targets), and can Coali2on
be measured via both short-term outputs and long-term outcomes.
(Nature related) Nature related physical risks are a direct result of an organisa2on’s dependence on natural resources Adapted from
Physical risks and ecosystems. Physical risks are usually loca2on-specific and can be categorised as either acute TFND
(short-term, event-based risks), chronic (risks from long-term changes in environmental condi2ons),
or both.
Recycled/reused Water and wastewater (treated or untreated) that has been used more than once before being ESRS E3
water discharged from the undertaking’s boundary, so that water demand is reduced. This may be in the
same process (recycled) or used in a different process within the same facility or another of the
undertaking’s facili2es (reused).
SanitaDon Access to, and use of, excreta and wastewater facili2es and services that ensure privacy and dignity, UNW-DPAC
ensuring a clean and healthy living environment for all.
Science based Measurable, ac2onable, and 2me-bound objec2ves, based on the best SBTN
targets available science, that allow actors to align with Earth’s limits and societal sustainability goals.
Stakeholder En2ty or individual that can reasonably be expected to be significantly affected by the repor2ng GRI
organisa2on’s ac2vi2es, products and services, or whose ac2ons can reasonably be expected to affect
the ability of the organisa2on to successfully implement its strategies and achieve its objec2ves.
Supply chain The full range of ac2vi2es or processes carried out by en22es upstream from the undertaking, which ESRS 1
provide products or services that are used in the development of the undertaking’s own products or
services. This includes upstream en22es with which the undertaking has a direct rela2onship (olen
referred to as a first-2er supplier) or an indirect business rela2onship.
Supply chain The supply chain (or indirect) water footprint of a business is the volume of freshwater consumed or Water
water footprint of polluted to produce all the goods and services that form the input of produc2on of a business. Footprint
a business Network
(Nature-related) Nature-related transi2on risks are risks that result from a misalignment between an organisa2on’s Adapted from
TransiDon risks strategy and management and the changing regulatory, policy or societal landscape in which it TFND
operates.
Wastewater Water which is of no further immediate value to the purpose for which it was used or in the pursuit of ESRS E3
which it was produced because of its quality, quan2ty, or 2me of occurrence. Wastewater from one
user can be a poten2al supply to a user elsewhere. Cooling water is not considered to be wastewater.
Water basin The area of land that provides all surface runoff and subsurface waters to a given waterbody. Also SBTN
referred to as a ‘watershed’ or ‘catchment’.
Water challenge Water-related issues including physical water scarcity, insufficient freshwater quality, SBTN
and/or regulatory restric2ons on water use.
Water The amount of water drawn into the boundaries of the undertaking (or facility) and not discharged ESRS E3
consumpDon back to the water environment or a third party over the course of the repor2ng period.
Water discharge The sum of effluents and other water leaving the boundaries of the organisa2on and released to ESRS E3
surface water, groundwater, or third par2es over the course of the repor2ng period.
Water-Energy- The ‘nexus’ term in the context of water, food and energy refers to these sectors being inextricably UNECE
Food (WEF) linked so that ac2ons in one policy area commonly have impacts on the others, as well as on the
Nexus ecosystems that natural resources and human ac2vi2es ul2mately depend upon.

Water footprint The total volume of freshwater consumed and polluted for the produc2on of the goods and services Water
of a consumer consumed by the consumer. It is calculated by adding the direct water use by people and their Footprint
indirect water use. The laker can be found by mul2plying all goods and services consumed by their Network
respec2ve water footprint.
Water footprint The water footprint of a product (a commodity, good or service) is the total volume of freshwater Water
of a product used to produce the product, summed over the various steps of the produc2on chain. The water Footprint
footprint of a product refers not only to the total volume of water used; it also refers to where and Network
when the water is used.
Water footprint Offsepng the nega2ve impacts of a water footprint is part of water neutrality. Offsepng is the last Water
offseMng step, aler a prior effort of reducing a water footprint insofar reasonably possible. Compensa2on can Footprint
be made by contribu2ng to (for example, by inves2ng in) a more sustainable and equitable use of Network
water in the hydrological units in which the impacts of the remaining water footprint are located.
Water intensity Water intensity refers to the water used per unit of value added per economic ac2vity. Its unit of UN
measurement is usually in m3 per US dollars.

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Water related risk The possibility of a company experiencing a water-related challenge (e.g. water scarcity, water stress, CEO Water
flooding, infrastructure decay, drought, weak water governance). The extent of risk is a func2on of Mandate
the likelihood of a specific challenge occurring and the severity of the challenge’s impact. The severity
of impact itself depends on the intensity of the challenge, as well as the vulnerability of the company.
Water resilience While there are numerous defini2ons of water resilience, in this report we use the term to emphasise Adapted from
business capacity to successfully respond and adapt to external shocks and crises related to water World Bank
challenges and learn from disrup2ons. Building resilience enables businesses to con2nue or quickly
resume opera2ons to sustain and increase compe22veness.
Water The use of water that is socially and culturally equitable, environmentally Alliance for
stewardship sustainable, and economically beneficial, achieved through a stakeholder inclusive process that Water
involves site- and catchment-based ac2ons. Stewardship
Water stress The ability, or lack thereof, to meet human and ecological demand for fresh water. Compared to CDP, adapted
scarcity, water stress is more inclusive, considering physical scarcity, water quality, and the from CEO
accessibility of water. Water
Mandate
Water use The water drawn from renewable freshwater resources (e.g. rivers, lakes, and groundwater) by Adapted from
human infrastructure. It also includes the direct use of non-conven2onal sources (e.g. treated UN FAO
wastewater, desalina2on), although this is rela2vely minor in most regions. It encompasses water AQUASTAT
delivered through public networks, as well as self-supplied (e.g. by agriculture, for irriga2on and
livestock). UN FAO data is split into three main categories of water use: agriculture, industry, and
municipal (i.e. domes2c & service-sector industries). These broad water categories are split into more
detailed ISIC (Interna2onal Standard Industrial Classifica2on) industries for the purpose of this report.

Water The sum of all water drawn into the boundaries of the undertaking from all sources for any use over ESRS E3
withdrawal the course of the repor2ng period.

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W T T C S T R AT E G I C PA R T N E R S

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