GITNUXREPORT 2025

Sustainability In The Water Industry Statistics

Water sustainability can be achieved through reuse, efficiency, and innovative technologies.

Jannik Linder

Co-Founder of Gitnux, specialized in content and tech since 2016.

First published: April 29, 2025

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Statistic 1

Nearly 2 billion people worldwide lack access to safely managed drinking water services, emphasizing the need for sustainable solutions

Statistic 2

The global water scarcity could affect more than 50% of the world’s population by 2025 if current trends continue, emphasizing urgent sustainability needs

Statistic 3

Around 1.7 billion people globally still lack access to safely managed drinking water, underscoring global inequities in water sustainability efforts

Statistic 4

Innovative financing models like public-private partnerships are crucial for funding sustainable water infrastructure projects across the globe, with investments reaching billions annually

Statistic 5

The use of green bonds to finance water infrastructure projects has increased globally, with the sector raising over $7 billion in 2022 alone, facilitating sustainable development

Statistic 6

Over 2 billion people live in countries experiencing high water stress, highlighting urgent need for sustainable water management strategies

Statistic 7

Green infrastructure solutions such as rain gardens and permeable pavements can reduce urban runoff and improve water quality

Statistic 8

Climate change is projected to reduce the availability of freshwater resources in many regions by 10–30% by 2050, exacerbating water scarcity

Statistic 9

The global water sector investment needs are estimated at $1 trillion annually until 2030 to meet sustainable development goals

Statistic 10

The use of solar-powered desalination plants can significantly reduce carbon emissions of freshwater production, making it more sustainable

Statistic 11

Water harvesting techniques can increase water availability in arid areas by capturing rainfall and runoff, improving resilience

Statistic 12

Increasing urban green spaces can reduce the urban heat island effect and mitigate water runoff, promoting water conservation

Statistic 13

Water desalination using renewable energy sources like wind and solar has the potential to be zero-emission, aligning with sustainability goals

Statistic 14

Green roofs and permeable pavements in urban areas can reduce stormwater runoff by as much as 80%, decreasing flood risk and pollution

Statistic 15

Reforestation and watershed management can increase natural water retention, reducing the need for extensive artificial water treatment, and enhancing sustainability

Statistic 16

Investment in green infrastructure projects for water management can generate economic benefits worth up to $4 for every dollar spent, through flood mitigation and environmental improvements

Statistic 17

Water treatment plants utilizing renewable energy sources are estimated to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by up to 60%, aligning operations with climate goals

Statistic 18

Climate-resilient water infrastructure investments are projected to grow at a CAGR of 9% through 2030 as countries adapt to changing water availability

Statistic 19

Implementing water reuse practices in industry can save up to 50% of freshwater intake, promoting sustainability

Statistic 20

Australia recycles about 30% of its wastewater for agricultural and industrial use, setting a benchmark for sustainability

Statistic 21

Water efficiency programs in industries such as textiles and paper manufacturing have saved millions of liters of water annually through innovative recycling and process optimization

Statistic 22

The percentage of successfully implemented wastewater treatment projects in developing countries increased by 15% over the past decade due to sustainability initiatives

Statistic 23

Globally, around 80% of wastewater is released into the environment without adequate treatment, impacting water quality and ecosystems

Statistic 24

Over 80% of wastewater in developing countries is discharged without treatment, causing health and environmental issues

Statistic 25

Globally, over 90% of industrial wastewaters are discharged untreated, posing major environmental challenges

Statistic 26

Eco-efficient water treatment methods such as biofiltration and constructed wetlands minimize chemical use and energy consumption, supporting sustainability

Statistic 27

The cost of water treatment for municipal supplies has increased by an average of 3–5% annually over the past decade, driven by the need for more sustainable and advanced processes

Statistic 28

The global market for sustainable water treatment chemicals is projected to grow at a CAGR of around 7% through 2027, reflecting increased efforts in sustainability

Statistic 29

The adoption of low-impact development (LID) practices in urban planning can reduce stormwater runoff by 65%, significantly benefiting water quality and urban sustainability

Statistic 30

Around 90% of global wastewater is discharged without adequate treatment, representing a massive challenge and an opportunity for sustainable development

Statistic 31

The water sector accounts for approximately 4% of global electricity use, highlighting opportunities for energy efficiency improvements

Statistic 32

Efficient water management can reduce urban water demand by up to 25%, saving significant energy and costs

Statistic 33

Desalination accounts for less than 1% of global freshwater production but is rapidly growing, especially in arid regions

Statistic 34

Leakage in urban water supply systems can be as high as 50%, representing a significant loss of resource and energy

Statistic 35

Smart water sensors and IoT technology can reduce water loss by up to 20% through early leak detection

Statistic 36

Water-efficient fixtures and appliances can reduce household water usage by up to 30%, decreasing energy consumption for water heating and treatment

Statistic 37

The water footprint of the average person globally is about 1,385 liters per day, encompassing direct and indirect water use

Statistic 38

Industrial water use accounts for about 20% of global freshwater withdrawals, with sustainable practices able to lower this significantly

Statistic 39

Water recycling and reuse can mitigate demand stress, saving about 25% of the water needed for agricultural irrigation globally

Statistic 40

The agriculture sector accounts for about 70% of global freshwater withdrawals, indicating a major area for sustainable practices

Statistic 41

Advanced membrane technology can reduce energy consumption in water treatment by up to 50%, boosting sustainability

Statistic 42

Implementing circular water economies can reduce freshwater dependency by recycling and reusing wastewater effectively, leading to savings of billions of liters annually

Statistic 43

The energy sector consumes about 4% of global electricity, with water treatment and distribution being significant contributors

Statistic 44

Rainwater harvesting systems can provide up to 30% of household water needs in rural areas, reducing reliance on external sources

Statistic 45

Urban water demand can be reduced by implementing water-sensitive urban design (WSUD), which can cut consumption by up to 20–25%

Statistic 46

The adoption of decentralized water management systems in rural areas can lead to cost savings of up to 40% compared to centralized systems, promoting sustainability

Statistic 47

New technologies in water purification, such as graphene-based filters, promise increased efficiency and lower energy use, with potential to transform water treatment

Statistic 48

Water loss reduction programs can save cities billions annually, with some cities achieving up to 30% decrease in water wastage, making infrastructure more sustainable

Statistic 49

The implementation of real-time data analytics in water utilities can improve operational efficiency by up to 15%, lowering costs and improving sustainability

Statistic 50

Approximately 60% of the world’s groundwater sources are over-extracted, leading to aquifer depletion and sustainability concerns

Statistic 51

Implementing integrated water resources management (IWRM) can optimize the use of water supplies and improve sustainability, reducing inefficiencies and conflicts

Statistic 52

Around 15% of global food production depends on irrigation with recycled wastewater, conserving freshwater resources and supporting sustainability

Statistic 53

Approximately 21% of the energy used in water treatment facilities is consumed by pumps and other machinery, pointing to energy-saving opportunities

Statistic 54

Investment in water-saving technologies and infrastructure is projected to grow at an average of 8% per year globally, driven by sustainability goals

Statistic 55

Use of GIS (Geographic Information Systems) in water management helps in planning and optimizing resource use, contributing to increased sustainability and reduced waste

Statistic 56

Implementing water-smart policies can reduce national water consumption by up to 20%, easing pressure on freshwater sources

Statistic 57

The use of artificial intelligence in water management can lead to smarter operations and up to 15% savings in operational costs, supporting sustainable practices

Statistic 58

An estimated 20% of the world’s irrigated land uses water inefficiently, emphasizing the need for sustainable irrigation techniques

Statistic 59

The global desalination market is expected to reach $29 billion by 2025, driven by increasing water scarcity and sustainability efforts

Statistic 60

Water conservation campaigns have increased household water efficiency by an average of 12% in various countries, proving the effectiveness of awareness in sustainability

Statistic 61

The adoption of leak detection and repair programs in urban water systems can decrease water loss by 15–35%, significantly improving sustainability and resource use

Statistic 62

In regions where integrated water resource management is adopted, water use efficiency has increased by approximately 25%, promoting long-term sustainability

Statistic 63

Increasing the reuse of greywater in residential buildings can reduce potable water demand by up to 50%, promoting sustainability

Statistic 64

The global adoption of water footprint labeling can influence corporate sustainability initiatives and consumer choices, with over 300 products now labelled worldwide

Statistic 65

Research estimates that implementing sustainable water management could generate economic benefits of up to $4.7 trillion annually by 2030, through various efficiency and conservation measures

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Key Highlights

Globally, around 80% of wastewater is released into the environment without adequate treatment, impacting water quality and ecosystems
The water sector accounts for approximately 4% of global electricity use, highlighting opportunities for energy efficiency improvements
Efficient water management can reduce urban water demand by up to 25%, saving significant energy and costs
Nearly 2 billion people worldwide lack access to safely managed drinking water services, emphasizing the need for sustainable solutions
Implementing water reuse practices in industry can save up to 50% of freshwater intake, promoting sustainability
Desalination accounts for less than 1% of global freshwater production but is rapidly growing, especially in arid regions
Leakage in urban water supply systems can be as high as 50%, representing a significant loss of resource and energy
Smart water sensors and IoT technology can reduce water loss by up to 20% through early leak detection
Green infrastructure solutions such as rain gardens and permeable pavements can reduce urban runoff and improve water quality
Water-efficient fixtures and appliances can reduce household water usage by up to 30%, decreasing energy consumption for water heating and treatment
The water footprint of the average person globally is about 1,385 liters per day, encompassing direct and indirect water use
Industrial water use accounts for about 20% of global freshwater withdrawals, with sustainable practices able to lower this significantly
Climate change is projected to reduce the availability of freshwater resources in many regions by 10–30% by 2050, exacerbating water scarcity

As water scarcity threatens over half the world’s population by 2025, innovative sustainable solutions in the water industry are not just urgent—they hold the potential to save trillions and reshape our future.

Access to Safe Water and Sanitation

Nearly 2 billion people worldwide lack access to safely managed drinking water services, emphasizing the need for sustainable solutions
The global water scarcity could affect more than 50% of the world’s population by 2025 if current trends continue, emphasizing urgent sustainability needs
Around 1.7 billion people globally still lack access to safely managed drinking water, underscoring global inequities in water sustainability efforts
Innovative financing models like public-private partnerships are crucial for funding sustainable water infrastructure projects across the globe, with investments reaching billions annually
The use of green bonds to finance water infrastructure projects has increased globally, with the sector raising over $7 billion in 2022 alone, facilitating sustainable development
Over 2 billion people live in countries experiencing high water stress, highlighting urgent need for sustainable water management strategies

Access to Safe Water and Sanitation Interpretation

With nearly 2 billion people lacking access to safe water and global water scarcity threatening over half the world's population by 2025, it’s clear that sustainable solutions backed by innovative financing—like green bonds and public-private partnerships—are not just beneficial but absolutely essential to prevent a future where water insecurity becomes the norm.

Climate Resilience and Investment in Water Infrastructure

Green infrastructure solutions such as rain gardens and permeable pavements can reduce urban runoff and improve water quality
Climate change is projected to reduce the availability of freshwater resources in many regions by 10–30% by 2050, exacerbating water scarcity
The global water sector investment needs are estimated at $1 trillion annually until 2030 to meet sustainable development goals
The use of solar-powered desalination plants can significantly reduce carbon emissions of freshwater production, making it more sustainable
Water harvesting techniques can increase water availability in arid areas by capturing rainfall and runoff, improving resilience
Increasing urban green spaces can reduce the urban heat island effect and mitigate water runoff, promoting water conservation
Water desalination using renewable energy sources like wind and solar has the potential to be zero-emission, aligning with sustainability goals
Green roofs and permeable pavements in urban areas can reduce stormwater runoff by as much as 80%, decreasing flood risk and pollution
Reforestation and watershed management can increase natural water retention, reducing the need for extensive artificial water treatment, and enhancing sustainability
Investment in green infrastructure projects for water management can generate economic benefits worth up to $4 for every dollar spent, through flood mitigation and environmental improvements
Water treatment plants utilizing renewable energy sources are estimated to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by up to 60%, aligning operations with climate goals
Climate-resilient water infrastructure investments are projected to grow at a CAGR of 9% through 2030 as countries adapt to changing water availability

Climate Resilience and Investment in Water Infrastructure Interpretation

Despite mounting climate challenges and a staggering $1 trillion annual investment need, embracing green infrastructure—like rain gardens, permeable pavements, and solar-powered desalination—not only promises to bolster water resilience and quality but also delivers a compelling 4-to-1 economic return, making sustainability in the water sector both an environmental imperative and an economically savvy bet.

Industrial Water Reuse and Sustainability

Implementing water reuse practices in industry can save up to 50% of freshwater intake, promoting sustainability
Australia recycles about 30% of its wastewater for agricultural and industrial use, setting a benchmark for sustainability
Water efficiency programs in industries such as textiles and paper manufacturing have saved millions of liters of water annually through innovative recycling and process optimization

Industrial Water Reuse and Sustainability Interpretation

By embracing water reuse and efficiency initiatives, industries are not only slashing their freshwater consumption—sometimes by half—but also setting a formidable example for sustainability, much like Australia's commendable 30% wastewater recycling—proving that innovative practices can yield both environmental and economic dividends.

Wastewater Management

The percentage of successfully implemented wastewater treatment projects in developing countries increased by 15% over the past decade due to sustainability initiatives

Wastewater Management Interpretation

The 15% rise in successful wastewater treatment projects across developing nations over the past decade underscores that sustainability initiatives are not just eco-friendly ideals but increasingly effective strategies for practical water management.

Water Pollution and Wastewater Management

Globally, around 80% of wastewater is released into the environment without adequate treatment, impacting water quality and ecosystems
Over 80% of wastewater in developing countries is discharged without treatment, causing health and environmental issues
Globally, over 90% of industrial wastewaters are discharged untreated, posing major environmental challenges
Eco-efficient water treatment methods such as biofiltration and constructed wetlands minimize chemical use and energy consumption, supporting sustainability
The cost of water treatment for municipal supplies has increased by an average of 3–5% annually over the past decade, driven by the need for more sustainable and advanced processes
The global market for sustainable water treatment chemicals is projected to grow at a CAGR of around 7% through 2027, reflecting increased efforts in sustainability
The adoption of low-impact development (LID) practices in urban planning can reduce stormwater runoff by 65%, significantly benefiting water quality and urban sustainability
Around 90% of global wastewater is discharged without adequate treatment, representing a massive challenge and an opportunity for sustainable development

Water Pollution and Wastewater Management Interpretation

With over 90% of wastewater still going untreated worldwide—especially in developing nations—urgent investment in eco-efficient treatment technologies and sustainable urban practices is essential to turn this global challenge into a catalyst for greener, healthier water systems.

Water Usage and Efficiency

The water sector accounts for approximately 4% of global electricity use, highlighting opportunities for energy efficiency improvements
Efficient water management can reduce urban water demand by up to 25%, saving significant energy and costs
Desalination accounts for less than 1% of global freshwater production but is rapidly growing, especially in arid regions
Leakage in urban water supply systems can be as high as 50%, representing a significant loss of resource and energy
Smart water sensors and IoT technology can reduce water loss by up to 20% through early leak detection
Water-efficient fixtures and appliances can reduce household water usage by up to 30%, decreasing energy consumption for water heating and treatment
The water footprint of the average person globally is about 1,385 liters per day, encompassing direct and indirect water use
Industrial water use accounts for about 20% of global freshwater withdrawals, with sustainable practices able to lower this significantly
Water recycling and reuse can mitigate demand stress, saving about 25% of the water needed for agricultural irrigation globally
The agriculture sector accounts for about 70% of global freshwater withdrawals, indicating a major area for sustainable practices
Advanced membrane technology can reduce energy consumption in water treatment by up to 50%, boosting sustainability
Implementing circular water economies can reduce freshwater dependency by recycling and reusing wastewater effectively, leading to savings of billions of liters annually
The energy sector consumes about 4% of global electricity, with water treatment and distribution being significant contributors
Rainwater harvesting systems can provide up to 30% of household water needs in rural areas, reducing reliance on external sources
Urban water demand can be reduced by implementing water-sensitive urban design (WSUD), which can cut consumption by up to 20–25%
The adoption of decentralized water management systems in rural areas can lead to cost savings of up to 40% compared to centralized systems, promoting sustainability
New technologies in water purification, such as graphene-based filters, promise increased efficiency and lower energy use, with potential to transform water treatment
Water loss reduction programs can save cities billions annually, with some cities achieving up to 30% decrease in water wastage, making infrastructure more sustainable
The implementation of real-time data analytics in water utilities can improve operational efficiency by up to 15%, lowering costs and improving sustainability
Approximately 60% of the world’s groundwater sources are over-extracted, leading to aquifer depletion and sustainability concerns
Implementing integrated water resources management (IWRM) can optimize the use of water supplies and improve sustainability, reducing inefficiencies and conflicts
Around 15% of global food production depends on irrigation with recycled wastewater, conserving freshwater resources and supporting sustainability
Approximately 21% of the energy used in water treatment facilities is consumed by pumps and other machinery, pointing to energy-saving opportunities
Investment in water-saving technologies and infrastructure is projected to grow at an average of 8% per year globally, driven by sustainability goals
Use of GIS (Geographic Information Systems) in water management helps in planning and optimizing resource use, contributing to increased sustainability and reduced waste
Implementing water-smart policies can reduce national water consumption by up to 20%, easing pressure on freshwater sources
The use of artificial intelligence in water management can lead to smarter operations and up to 15% savings in operational costs, supporting sustainable practices
An estimated 20% of the world’s irrigated land uses water inefficiently, emphasizing the need for sustainable irrigation techniques
The global desalination market is expected to reach $29 billion by 2025, driven by increasing water scarcity and sustainability efforts
Water conservation campaigns have increased household water efficiency by an average of 12% in various countries, proving the effectiveness of awareness in sustainability
The adoption of leak detection and repair programs in urban water systems can decrease water loss by 15–35%, significantly improving sustainability and resource use
In regions where integrated water resource management is adopted, water use efficiency has increased by approximately 25%, promoting long-term sustainability
Increasing the reuse of greywater in residential buildings can reduce potable water demand by up to 50%, promoting sustainability
The global adoption of water footprint labeling can influence corporate sustainability initiatives and consumer choices, with over 300 products now labelled worldwide
Research estimates that implementing sustainable water management could generate economic benefits of up to $4.7 trillion annually by 2030, through various efficiency and conservation measures

Water Usage and Efficiency Interpretation

With water accounting for just 4% of global electricity use but containing vast untapped potential for efficiency—ranging from smart leak detection to sustainable irrigation—it's clear that embracing innovative, integrated, and conservation-focused strategies isn't just good policy but a necessary investment to prevent resource depletion and generate trillions in economic benefits.