To facilitate this work, we have our own tool, the Repsol Water Tool (RWT), which allows us to obtain a detailed view of the management of this resource, as well as the risks associated with each facility both internally (the types of uses and consumption of this resource in the different processes, the treatment and quality of the discharge, etc.), and externally (availability, quality and ecosystems that are sources of catchment or bodies receiving discharges, competition for water, etc.).
We developed this tool in 2012 based on the Local Water Tool (LWT) and the Global Water Tool (GWT) of the Global Environmental Management Initiative (GEMI) and the World Business Council for Sustainable Development (WBCSD). In 2018, it was updated to improve its usability and update some methodological aspects.
Based on their results, our technicians identify aspects to improve and design specific actions for each facility or asset, which focus on three lines: improving knowledge of the environment and water uses, efficient resource management and improving water treatment technology. The objectives and actions included in the action plans are designed taking into account the factors of the local environment as well as those of the facility itself.
Efficient water management is society's main challenge for the coming decades
Water is an essential element for sustainable development of society, reducing poverty, improving people's quality of life and boosting economic growth.
- The OECD estimates that water demand for industry will increase by 400% from 2000 to 2050, and that there will be a 20% increase in global water extraction for energy production from 2010 to 2035, while water consumption could grow by 85% driven by the transition to more efficient power plants with more advanced cooling systems.
- Consumption will increase by 85% worldwide by 2030, according to the International Energy Agency, due to population growth, concentration in large cities and economic development in emerging countries.
- Water is also essential in the oil and gas sector. The challenge is therefore to find a balance in the use of both resources for energy production.
- All Repsol areas use water in some of their key processes. Most consumption occurs in refining and chemicals, where it is mainly used for cooling and steam production processes.