Water quality and supply are emerging as major challenges in the 21st century. At the 2014 World Economic Forum, global business leaders cited water as a top three global risk. What is not clear is how, or if, U.S. companies are responding to these challenges.
To gain insight on corporate perceptions of risks associated with water issues, VOX Global and Pacific Institute surveyed over 50 U.S.-based companies representing virtually every industry sector. Our results confirm that water-related risks are a business concern today that will only increase over time, but the majority of companies surveyed appear to be making little investment to respond or prepare. Therefore, our results suggest an apparent gap between concern and action. You may access the results of the study below and find steps companies can take toward developing a strategic response to water risks that allow them to bridge that gap.
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About the organizations:
The Pacific Institute is a water think tank that conducts interdisciplinary research and partners with stakeholders to produce solutions that advance environmental protection, community wellbeing and economic development.
VOX Global is a public affairs and strategic communications firm. Our sustainability practice group works with clients to identify, design and communicate responsible and sustainable business practices. Learn more about VOX Global’s sustainability practice here.
The Water Action Hub is an online matchmaking tool developed by the CEO Water Mandate in collaboration with the International Business Leaders Forum (IBLF), Deloitte, the German Development agency GIZ (on behalf of BMZ), and the Pacific Institute. It provides resources on organizations, projects, regions, and action areas related to water.