Securing a Water Positive Future in Built Environment

This document is a guide that outlines the importance of achieving water efficiency in the built environment sector. It presents an overview of the significant water usage attributed to buildings and construction, which is estimated to account for over 15% of global freshwater use. The text details various construction product manufacturing processes that consume water, such as pre-cast concrete and cement-based products. It also highlights the water consumption associated with building operations, including landscaping, which contributes to approximately 12% of total water use in the US. The document emphasizes the potential benefits of water efficiency during both the construction and operational phases of built assets. Additionally, it provides considerations for achieving water-efficient buildings, including the adoption of water-efficient practices, the mitigation of the water footprint of materials, and the installation of alternative water systems and fixtures. The guide encourages pursuing green building accreditation and implementing water efficiency labeling schemes.