323: Water scarcity: why it matters for investors

LGIM Talks

Saturday 8 June is World Ocean Day, which this year has the theme of catalysing action for our ocean and climate. It’s a timely reminder of the vital importance of water, and the increasing gap between supply and demand.
But what’s the economic cost of water scarcity, and how might technology help provide some solutions? Discussing these ideas are:
· Alex Burr, our ESG Policy Lead within our Investment Stewardship team
· Ellie Piscopiello, Senior ETF Analyst
· Shichen Zhao, ETF Thematic Research Analyst
This podcast is hosted by Harry Brooks, European Content Manager.
For professional investors only. Capital at risk.
Sources:
- CDP estimate of the financial impact of water risks: Huge financial opportunity revealed from tackling global water crisis - CDP
- Water consumption of ChatGPT: Study from researchers at the University of Colorado Riverside and the University of Texas Arlington in the US
- Economic impact of lack of access to clean water: The World Bank: Water overview, 2024
- Water demand to outstrip supply by 40% by 2030: The Guardian: Global fresh water demand will outstrip supply by 40% by 2030, say experts, 2023
- Water tech growth estimate: GWI, Straits Research, Transparency Market Research, Precision Business Insights, Data Intelligence, 2023
- UK water company spending estimates: https://www.water.org.uk/news-views-publications/news/water-companies-propose-largest-ever-investment

- Digital water solutions and services market growth estimate: Global Digital Water Solutions and Services Market Research Report Feb 2023
- European Investment Bank water infrastructure project spending: European Investment Bank: Maximising scarce resources: EIB updates its water sector policy, 2023
- US Bipartisan Infrastructure Law spending on clean water initiatives: https://www.epa.gov/infrastructure