EY Japan and the Ministry of Environment Collaborate on Water Sustainability Report

Collaborative Efforts for Water Resource Sustainability

In a significant step toward promoting sustainable water resource management, EY Japan, known for its strategic consultancy services, has partnered with the Ministry of Environment to draft a comprehensive report titled "Potential Applications of Economic Valuation of Natural Capital - The Value of Initiatives Contributing to Water Positivity." This collaboration aims to highlight the importance of water conservation and prudent use, encapsulating the concept of Water Positivity.

The Essence of Water Positivity

The term 'Water Positive' refers to initiatives and practices where the supply of water exceeds consumption in a sustainable manner. The report emphasizes that water is not merely a commodity but an essential ecological service crucial for both communities and businesses. Water connects upstream and downstream resources and is directly influenced by the conditions of the surrounding ecosystems, including water intake and discharge systems. This necessitates a concerted effort from various stakeholders to collectively promote sustainable water use across whole river basins.

Importance of the Report

The report comes at a time when the significance of Water Positive initiatives is becoming increasingly recognized. However, it also sheds light on prevalent challenges such as a lack of clarity in policies related to Water Positivity and uncertainty among businesses about the advantages of adopting Water Positive practices. These issues underscore the critical need for the visualization and quantification of Water Positive strategies.

The report is distinctive as it revolves around the economic valuation of water within natural capital, aiming for a detailed understanding of its value. It categorizes Water Positive initiatives into nine specific areas, including:
1. Conservation and sustainable management of forests.
2. Safeguarding farmland and improving agricultural conditions.
3. Treatment of industrial wastewater.

Each initiative is meticulously structured using logic models to assess both the corporate values—such as raw material cost savings—and the societal benefits, like improved living conditions.

A Roadmap for Future Initiatives

By utilizing the valuation of Water Positive initiatives, implications extend beyond mere metrics; it could foster the establishment of regional alliances aimed at enhancing local and corporate efforts towards Water Positivity. Such collaborations are anticipated to boost both community values and corporate reputation.

Expert Insights

Keiichi Hasegawa, Director of the Public and Social Infrastructure Sector at EYSC, remarks on the increasing focus on natural capital, particularly concerning water resources. He states, "Japan is fortunate to have substantial water resources; however, strategic measures to maintain and utilize them sustainably are essential. The concept of Water Positive will be crucial going forward. Water, being a communal resource, necessitates inclusive efforts from entire communities to sustainably create economic value. I hope to see collaborative initiatives to protect and nurture these vital resources for future generations."

Official Release and Resources

The detailed report is publicly accessible via the Ministry of Environment's website. Interested parties can review the full report and find a summary at the following links:

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