Global Water Resources, Inc., a prominent entity in water resource management, recently marked its 20th anniversary by releasing its second annual sustainability report for 2023. This report is not just a ceremonial gesture but a reflection of the company’s unwavering commitment to advancing water sustainability through innovative approaches, such as its Total Water Management (TWM) philosophy. Focusing primarily on the state of Arizona, Global Water has effectively demonstrated its role in overcoming pervasive water deficiencies and resource challenges via comprehensive, forward-thinking strategies that benefit both the environment and the community.
The Total Water Management (TWM) Philosophy
Global Water Resources has been an industry forerunner in implementing the Total Water Management (TWM) philosophy, which takes an integrated approach to managing the entire water cycle. By owning and operating water, wastewater, and recycled water utilities within the same geographic area, the company maximizes the beneficial use of recycled water to strive for sustainable water resource management. This pioneering philosophy not only promotes sustainability but also ensures communities have uninterrupted access to clean water, minimizing environmental impact through efficient resource utilization.
The company’s dedication to TWM has yielded significant contributions to water conservation and recycling efforts. For instance, in 2023 alone, Global Water achieved a 6.2% increase in recycled water usage, amounting to a staggering 1.4 billion gallons. Such milestones epitomize the company’s commitment to devising and implementing practical, substantial solutions in water management. This holistic approach stands as a testament to their leadership in creating sustainable and resilient water resource systems amid increasing environmental pressures.
Commitment to Rigorous Reporting Standards
Global Water’s latest sustainability report aligns with the Sustainability Accounting Standards Board (SASB) Standards governed by the IFRS Foundation, signifying the company’s commitment to rigorous, transparent reporting. This alignment provides stakeholders with precise, detailed insights into the company’s sustainability efforts, ensuring high levels of accountability and responsible reporting of their environmental, social, and governance practices.
By adopting the SASB Standards, Global Water emphasizes its dedication to maintaining transparency and trust with its stakeholders. These standards offer a comprehensive framework for reporting on essential sustainability metrics, providing a clear picture of the company’s achievements and areas needing improvement. This practice allows stakeholders to make well-informed decisions and reinforces the company’s standing as a responsible corporate citizen committed to sustainable water management.
Addressing Water Sustainability Challenges
Global Water’s report highlights the formidable challenges related to water sustainability, focusing on the western United States and specifically Arizona, which faces prolonged drought conditions. These droughts have brought about severe threats to water resources, requiring innovative solutions and substantial investments. Global Water has adeptly positioned itself as a leader in tackling these challenges through a robust TWM strategy and proactive measures aimed at preserving water quality and availability.
One primary concern involves managing contaminants in problematic water systems. Global Water has committed significant resources to developing technologies and infrastructures that ensure the safety and cleanliness of water supplies. These investments are indispensable in safeguarding the health of communities and conserving the environment for forthcoming generations. By leveraging advanced technologies and profound expertise, the company is effectively mitigating the adverse impacts of water scarcity and ensuring long-term sustainability.
Innovations in Water Management
In keeping with its reputation for pioneering water management solutions, Global Water has consistently harnessed advanced technologies to enhance its practices. The adoption of remote metering infrastructure and real-time leak alerts epitomizes the company’s focus on innovative technologies. These strategies not only facilitate heightened awareness of water use but also aid in the prompt detection and prevention of water wastage, significantly contributing to overall conservation efforts.
The implementation of smart water management programs further bolsters these efforts, empowering customers to closely monitor their water consumption. Through the use of real-time data and alerts, customers can immediately identify and address leaks, preventing unnecessary water loss and subsequent costs. This technological adoption not only optimizes resource usage but also fosters an inclusive environment where consumers are active participants in sustainable water management practices.
Conservation Incentives and Customer Engagement
To incentivize reduced water consumption, Global Water has introduced various conservation initiatives. One particularly effective measure is the six-tier rate design, which encourages customers to conserve water through a scaled pricing structure. This initiative has proven especially successful in Maricopa, Arizona, where over 54% of the customers have reaped the benefits of reduced water usage, showcasing the program’s positive impact on community behavior and conservation efforts.
Beyond tiered pricing, Global Water extends its support to vulnerable customer segments through a comprehensive assistance program. This initiative provides financial relief to low-income customers, furloughed workers, individuals facing medical hardships, deployed military service members, and disabled veterans. In 2023, this program administered approximately $30,000 in credit benefits, highlighting the company’s dedication to supporting and uplifting its community. Such initiatives not only foster customer loyalty but also underscore Global Water’s role as a socially responsible entity.
Growth and Expansion Strategies
Global Water has witnessed substantial growth in recent years, marked by a 9.8% increase in active service connections in 2023, reaching a total of 61,791 connections. This expansion is primarily attributed to the acquisition of Farmers Water Co. and organic growth within the company’s existing service areas. Such growth aligns with Global Water’s overarching mission to consolidate and regionalize water utilities, thereby enhancing efficiency and improving service delivery.
To accommodate and support this expansion, Global Water invested $22.3 million in 2023 for service area improvements and infrastructure development. These strategic investments are part of a broader initiative aimed at scaling operations to meet the increasing demands for water resources in Arizona. As the state continues to experience rapid development, Global Water’s proactive approach ensures it remains a leading force in effective water management and service provision.
Industry Recognition and Accolades
Global Water Resources, Inc., a notable leader in water resource management, recently celebrated its 20th anniversary by unveiling its second annual sustainability report for 2023. This report isn’t merely a formality; it signifies the company’s deep commitment to enhancing water sustainability through cutting-edge methods, like its Total Water Management (TWM) approach. With a primary focus on Arizona, Global Water has showcased its pivotal role in addressing persistent water shortages and resource challenges. Their comprehensive, forward-looking strategies not only support the environment but also enrich the community. By using innovative solutions and demonstrating their dedication to sustainable practices, Global Water continues to make significant strides in water conservation and resource management. Their efforts underscore the importance of proactive measures in ensuring a sustainable future in water-scarce regions. This milestone report highlights the company’s achievements and reaffirms its mission to contribute positively to both the environment and society.
