Water Stress Indicator for mining operations

The Challenge

Determining water stress in mining operations to support goals for reducing water consumption presents a significant challenge. This involves assessing the availability and quality of water resources in mining areas, which are often located in regions already facing high levels of water stress. The task requires comprehensive data collection and analysis to understand the impact of mining activities on local water supplies and to identify opportunities for reducing water usage. This effort is crucial for developing sustainable water management practices that align with regulatory requirements and environmental standards.

The Solution

The solution involves selecting appropriate methods to calculate water stress in watersheds and sub-basins, ensuring accurate assessment of water availability and usage. This is followed by calculating water stress in mining operational units to identify areas of concern. Based on these calculations, an action plan is developed to address water stress in mining activities, aiming to optimize water usage and reduce consumption, thereby promoting sustainable water management practices.

The Impact

Tractebel’s efforts enabled the client to identify which of its operational units were located in areas experiencing water stress. This crucial information facilitated the creation of an action plan aimed at reducing water consumption across these units. The results of this initiative were instrumental in the client’s sustainability disclosures, showcasing their commitment to responsible water management and environmental stewardship.