In a world where water scarcity is becoming one of the most urgent crises due to anthropogenic actions, the industry is responsible for 90% of the global water footprint. United Nations predictions indicate that if we do not change our way of interacting with the planet, by 2050 the scenario will be unsustainable due to the combination of too much water, too little water, and pollution. This massive consumption underscores the imperative need for a holistic analysis that balances human consumption with the production of essential goods. Integrated Water Resources Management (IWRM) promotes the coordinated development and management of water, land, and related resources to maximize economic and social welfare in an equitable manner without compromising the sustainability of vital ecosystems. All these interconnected topics are integral to achieving a positive impact on water resources, known as Water Positive.

The Water Positive approach integrates advanced technologies and nature-based solutions, enhancing water efficiency and sustainability while stimulating economic growth. Regulation (EU) 2020/741 provides a robust framework for this initiative within Europe, promoting water reuse and setting high standards for water quality. This regulation, coupled with the Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD), ensures that companies transparently report their water usage and impacts, facilitating the transition to Water Positive practices. The scenario for Water Positive is timely and critical. The CSRD fills the gaps left by previous regulations, mandating comprehensive sustainability reports that include detailed water management practices. By aligning with these regulations, companies can meet stringent EU standards and contribute to broader environmental goals.

The urgency of this initiative is underscored by current industrial water consumption, which stands at approximately 2000 km³ per year. Presently, global water production from non-potable sources is only about 110 km³ annually. However, comprehensive wastewater treatment holds the potential to yield up to 365 km³ per year. The Water Positive initiative covers numerous processes beyond current recovery methods, addressing areas where advanced technologies—some over 80 years old but underutilized—can be effectively deployed. Examples include Non-Revenue Water (NRW) management, water harvesting, and afforestation techniques to enhance groundwater recharge. These solutions exist, but a concerted effort is needed to implement them systematically and comprehensively. These efforts will positively impact water resources, especially in scenarios of scarcity, excess, and pollution.

Here is where the concept of "Water Positive" presents itself as a transformative strategy. The aim is not only to reduce the use of freshwater but also to generate a net positive impact on water resources, creating more water than companies consume to produce their goods or services. This initiative supports a regenerative water economy. As production increases, the availability of freshwater also increases, making the process not only sustainable but necessary given the current challenges. By adopting advanced technologies and nature-based solutions, water efficiency and sustainability can be significantly improved, while also stimulating the global economy.

In practice, this translates into tangible benefits for communities, agriculture, the economy, and the environment, helping to avoid greenwashing. More than 50 corporations such as Microsoft, Google, Tesla, BP, PepsiCo, The Coca-Cola Company, Unilever, Amazon, Cargill, Amazon Web Services, and Starbucks have committed to this initiative, and this is just the beginning. These companies are not only mitigating their water footprint but are also actively contributing to the regeneration and sustainability of water sources. The lessons learned from these examples provide a valuable roadmap for others looking to implement similar practices.

The future of the water credits market is under discussion. While it may not have the best reputation due to the carbon credits market, transparency in water resources should not be a problem. As more companies and organizations recognize the value of a "Water Positive" strategy, significant growth will be seen in this sector. This market has the potential to transform water resource management globally, ensuring a sustainable and resilient future.

In conclusion, the Water Positive initiative represents a pivotal advancement in water management, extending the principles of IWM to achieve a net positive water impact. This ambitious commitment, along with the Water Resilience Coalition (WRC), an initiative led by company presidents, aims to reduce water stress between now and 2050. The goal is to accelerate the collective impact that companies can have in developing greater water resilience, ensuring that the actions taken today generate lasting benefits for future generations and contribute to a more sustainable and resilient world.