A Water Footprint Compensation update

Adama Wetlands, Ethiopia 

About the Water Footprint Compensation Initiative

Together with the Coalition of the willing*, Water Footprint Compensation champions projects that address water challenges through innovative solutions. This initiative stems from commitments made during the UN 2023 Water Conference in New York and Coalition discussions, formalised on October 31, 2024.  

*(Association of Dutch Water Operators (WaterWorX), Blue Deal Netherlands, the Netherlands Water Partnership (NWP) and Akvo Foundation)

The Water Footprint Compensation initiative is the first water offset scheme grounded in the water footprint methodology. Based on the principle of ‘a litre for a (sustainable) litre’, its goal is to accelerate the transition to a water-secure world. This initiative enables companies to offset their water consumption by investing in sustainable water projects. To facilitate this, Water Footprint Implementation (WFI) is developing a marketplace where companies seeking to compensate for their water footprint can connect with approved water compensation projects. 

Kickstarting calculations for impact  

On the 4th of November World Waternet joined the Water Footprint Compensation initiative by signing an MOU. We are honored to be part of this ambitious programme that connects innovation, sustainability, and impactful action. The journey of Water Footprint Compensation continues to gain momentum with its first round of calculations. Led by Craig and Tairro from Water Footprint Implementations, the water compensation of 5 impactful projects was measured/calculated. These projects were brought forward by the Coalition of the Willing, and they represent the intersection of innovation and sustainability, fostering a marketplace where water stewardship meets compensators.  

Highlighting five projects in action  

• Tackling non-revenue water challenges in Semarang, Indonesia (project by WaterWorx / VEI).  

• Constructed wetlands for sanitation in Adama, Ethiopia (by: Blue Deal / World Waternet).  

• Sustainable water management solutions in Texel, Netherlands (by: Acacia Water).  

• Water Hyacinth Removal: Restoring ecosystems in Southern Africa. (Khalistan project) 

• Makhasa Wetland Restoration: A collaborative effort in wetland rejuvenation with University of Cape Town (UCT) and Wetskills Foundation, following WFI’s project of the 11th Hour Racing Team.  

Constructed wetlands for sanitation in Adama, Ethiopia 

World Waternet has previously contributed to the development of the pilot and the program with, among other things, the BluElephant. On October 9, 2024, Adama, Ethiopia, celebrated the inauguration of an artificial wetland designed for wastewater treatment. This nature-based solution, funded by the NWB Fund and supported by World Waternet, enhances water quality for 700 residents across three condominium blocks. The project’s success lies in its partnership with the Dembela community and Adama Water Utility, ensuring long-term sustainability through local ownership. In the Water Footprint Compensation method, this wetland reduces the water footprint by improving wastewater treatment. The first results are expected by January 2025 

Part of a larger movement 

The Water Footprint Compensation programme goes beyond individual projects. It represents a growing marketplace where water stewardship meets compensation, enabling organisations to support sustainable water use. The five highlighted projects reflect a collective commitment to making a tangible impact. 

 Looking ahead 

Our collaboration with Water Footprint Compensation is more than a partnership; it is a step toward systemic change in how we approach water challenges. This initiative underscores World Waternet’s belief in the power of collaboration.