06-10-2021 · Research

Historic fund launches a new water study

Water is a precious resource essential for sustaining not only life and health but also industrial development and economic growth. The RobecoSAM Sustainable Water Equities team celebrates its 20th anniversary with a new study on the state of water markets.

    Authors

  • Dieter Kuffer CFA

    Head of Thematic Investing Water/Healthy Living/Biodiversity/Circular Economy

Billions are experiencing water stress and scarcity, threatening not only their physical and economic well-being but also sustainable growth and development. Megatrends and climate change are exacerbating overconsumption and hastening a global water crisis. Emerging markets are the most vulnerable but developed regions are increasingly facing greater risks.

This study helps investors navigate through the complexities of water supply and demand, the characteristics of consumption across regions and sectors, and the drivers of future water stress and scarcity. More importantly, it explains the growth opportunities and diverse pool of sustainable solutions that address water risks and challenges. These include circular solutions such as wastewater treatment to help cities and industries recycle and reuse water supplies; conventional measures such as infrastructure investments in mains, pipes and transmission networks as well as ‘smart’ digital solutions that can rapidly detect leaks and pollutants as well as efficiently manage flow and consumption patterns.

Investments in water will help reduce water scarcity, enhance water security and increase shared value for investors and society.

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Boiling point

Global growth, climate change and the increasing pressure for water resources

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