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IoT solutions in agriculture, utilities, and smart buildings will be key to alleviating the pressure of water scarcity.

2022-09-07

 

The impacts of climate change are becoming increasingly evident before our very eyes, making water consumption and the efficient management of water resources ever more critical. According to a recent report by Transform Insights, “Smart Water Meters: Connecting 700 Million Units by 2030 to Tackle Water Scarcity and Loss,” household water usage has increased by 600% over the past 50 years. By 2030, half of the world’s population will face water stress, with the ratio of demand exceeding supply reaching as high as 40%.

 

Moreover, some of the United Nations’ 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) are closely linked to water consumption. The most obvious example is “Clean Water and Sanitation,” but themes such as “Zero Hunger,” “Good Health and Well-being,” “Responsible Consumption and Production,” and “Life Below Water” all depend on the protection and efficient use of water resources.

 

Faced with growing demand and increasingly severe environmental challenges, the Internet of Things is crucial for optimizing water resource consumption. In its recent report, “Sustainable Development Driven by Digital Transformation,” Transforma Insights explores how businesses can leverage disruptive new technologies to achieve their sustainability goals. One key mechanism for doing so is reducing water consumption.

 

The solutions that have the greatest impact on water consumption are smart agriculture solutions, smart water meters, and smart building solutions—though many other solutions can also significantly reduce water usage.

 

Agricultural solutions include crop management and drones that monitor soil moisture and temperature, helping to determine the optimal amount of water needed to sustain crops. On average, irrigation management and soil monitoring can reduce water usage by 25% to 30%. Drone solutions equipped with soil-sensing technology can further reduce water consumption by 15% to 20%.

 

Smart water meter solutions transform consumer behavior by continuously monitoring water usage and raising awareness, thereby reducing water consumption. On average, smart water meters—whether residential or commercial—can cut water usage by 6% to 9%.

 

In smart buildings, building automation systems equipped with water flow monitoring systems and leak or flood detectors can significantly reduce water waste. Leaks account for roughly 20% to 35% of a building’s water consumption; therefore, promptly addressing leaks with digital solutions after they occur can help substantially cut down on water wastage. Installing water flow monitoring devices can save around 10% of water usage.

 

Savings can also come from unexpected sources. Reducing the length of hospital stays through smart healthcare solutions can help cut water consumption. Expanding smart public transportation and/or car-sharing programs can also decrease the need for car washes. According to a Volvo Cars service survey, Stockholm’s reduced car-washing activity has resulted in water savings of 3.8 million liters over the course of a year.

 

 

Source: IoT Home Network

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