Water Supply and Treatment emission factors
Water supply and treatment have carbon footprints from the energy used to pump, treat, and distribute clean water, and from the treatment of wastewater. DESNZ provides emission factors of approximately 0.149 kg CO₂e per cubic metre for water supply and 0.272 kg CO₂e per cubic metre for wastewater treatment. While these factors are relatively low per unit, high-volume water users in food processing, manufacturing, and hospitality can accumulate significant emissions.
Why it matters for carbon reporting
Water-related emissions are often overlooked in carbon reporting but can be material for water-intensive operations. Including water supply and treatment in your Scope 3 demonstrates reporting thoroughness. It also highlights operational efficiency opportunities, since reducing water consumption cuts both utility bills and associated carbon emissions.
Practical example
A food processing plant uses 50,000 cubic metres of mains water per year. Water supply emissions are 50,000 x 0.149 = 7.45 tCO₂e, and wastewater treatment adds 50,000 x 0.272 = 13.6 tCO₂e. Installing a closed-loop water recycling system reduces consumption by 30%, saving 6.3 tCO₂e and £45,000 in water charges.
How to reduce water supply and treatment emissions
- 1Install water meters and monitor consumption regularly
- 2Implement water recycling for non-potable applications
- 3Fix leaks promptly to avoid wasted water and emissions
- 4Specify water-efficient fixtures and equipment in procurement
Sample emission factors
View allWater Treatment
Emission Intensity of Water Treatment in the UK in 2021. Available in BEIS Greenhouse Gas Reporting: Conversion Factors 2021.
Water Treatment
UK Government Conversion Factors
Water Supply
UK Government Conversion Factors
Water Treatment
UK Government Conversion Factors
Water Treatment
UK Government Conversion Factors
Water Treatment
UK Government Conversion Factors
Water Supply
UK Government Conversion Factors
Water Supply
UK Government Conversion Factors
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