Study: improving clean water access could slash carbon emission by 1.6 billion tonnes

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🗞️ Driving the news: A groundbreaking study spearheaded by WaterAid suggests that enhancing access to clean water could significantly reduce carbon emissions by 1.6 billion tonnes annually
• This reduction is nearly half of the EU's yearly emissions and surpasses the combined emissions of the global aviation and shipping industries

🔭 The context: The research, conducted in collaboration with the University of Colorado Boulder and Castalia Advisors, emphasizes the dual benefits of water improvement projects
• Such initiatives not only address the urgent need for clean water in vulnerable communities but also offer a substantial opportunity for carbon reduction

🌍 Why it matters for the planet: The water sector, accountable for up to 10% of worldwide greenhouse gas emissions, is extremely susceptible to climate change impacts, including droughts and floods
• By focusing on water resilience and leveraging high-integrity Voluntary Carbon Market projects, there's potential for a "triple win" - reducing emissions, bolstering water security, and enhancing global access to clean water and sanitation

⏭️ What's next: The study calls for a collaborative effort among countries, the water industry, and the climate finance community
• By investing in carbon credits that offer both emissions reductions and water benefits, businesses can play a crucial role in addressing climate change and water scarcity

💬 One quote: "Water is at the heart of the climate crisis," said Kate Hughes, CEO of WaterAid's Resilient Water Accelerator. She underscores the need for international partnerships and investments to harness the untapped potential of integrating water resilience and carbon reduction efforts.

📈 One stat: Over 1.6 billion tonnes of CO2 could be saved annually through improved water access, highlighting the significant impact of combining water and climate initiatives.

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