What is the water footprint (WF)? It is an environmental index that measures the total volume of freshwater used to produce the goods and services we consume. Unlike water meters, which measure the amount of water consumed directly from the faucet, this concept encompasses the entire process from supply to collection (wastewater, evaporation, etc.). It was introduced in 2002 by Arjen Hoekstra, a professor at UNESCO's Institute for Water Education, and over the past two decades the concept has become an essential tool for understanding our dependence on freshwater in a global context of water scarcity and as an essential natural resource for both life and the planet.
In this scenario, how can we reduce water consumption? Whether at home, in the office, or in a business, the solution lies in a combination of smart technologies and high-efficiency appliances designed to reduce the water footprint without compromising on comfort or functionality in our homes or small businesses.
Digitalization and smart faucets
According to Spain's Organization of Consumers and Users (OCU), the first step toward achieving greater water efficiency would be to digitalize and monitor consumption. For example, by using smart meters and water management applications, you can detect hidden leaks that can result in a loss of up to 30 liters per day. This adds up to 900 liters of wasted water a month and almost 11,000 liters in one year.
Another way to reduce consumption is to use smart faucets. These devices are equipped with proximity sensors and solenoid valves to manage fluid flow more efficiently using flow restrictors, thereby preventing waste. This prevents the faucet from accidentally being left on and stops the flow of water while you soap up your hands or brush your teeth.
In this context, some technology companies are already marketing low-cost adapters to connect sensors to traditional faucets, while newer models operate using rechargeable batteries (USB), voice commands, automatic temperature control, and mobile apps that track usage and incidents in real time. Another option would be faucets with aerators and flow regulators, which introduce air bubbles to reduce consumption by up to 40% according to manufacturers' estimates, without the user noticing a loss of pressure. They are particularly well-suited for busy or public areas.
Moisture sensors work in the same way. They are automated irrigation systems for home gardens or business patios that detect and prevent unnecessary water waste on rainy days or when humidity levels are high, using real-time data captured from the atmosphere.
Eco programs and savings in business
The eco programs on home appliances — even on showers — are also another useful tool. They heat the water to a lower temperature to make the most of every liter through more efficient cycles in longer programs that, contrary to what you might think, actually use less water, not more. A report from the European Commission highlighted that models rated with the current energy labeling system use up to 50% less water than models from a decade ago, among the 175 million washing machines in the 27 Member States.
In small businesses such as restaurants and laundromats, these new smart control systems (faucets, digitalization, monitoring, sensors, etc.) not only help improve water management but also lead to lower fixed costs. Replacing traditional hoses with high-pressure washers in garages and shops also significantly reduces water consumption, as does automating the timing of car wash services.
Innovation and technology aimed at reducing water consumption help preserve an essential resource for the planet's balance and sustainability, safeguarding the ecological flow of rivers, lakes, and wetlands, as well as biodiversity, both now and in the future.