Water UK challenges global water industry to decarbonise

Water UK has called on water companies around the world to tackle the carbon emissions associated with supplying water to billions of homes and businesses every year.

Launched in support of the UN’s World Water Day today, the UK water industry is working as an official partner to the Race to Zero campaign to encourage providers of water and wastewater services to commit to achieving net zero ahead of the COP26 Climate Conference this November. The ambition is to mobilise major water companies responsible for 20% of global water supply, with the aim of delivering the full decarbonisation of water and wastewater services in 20 countries by 2030.

Led by the UN’s High-Level Climate Champions for Climate Action, the Race to Zero is a global campaign, which aims to rally leadership across businesses, cities, regions and investors for a healthy, resilient, zero carbon recovery.

Water UK was the first industry trade body to be made one of just 20 official partners to the campaign having published the world’s first detailed plan to deliver a net zero water supply for customers by 2030. United Utilities has also been confirmed as the latest UK water company to join the campaign alongside Anglian Water and Severn Trent.

Water UK chief executive, Christine McGourty (pictured) , said: “All eyes are on the UK as we prepare to host this year’s COP summit. We don’t have all the answers, but we are committed to sharing our learnings with the global water community, and with other sectors, as they embark on their own net zero journeys.”