The automobile industry is a traditionally strong client base for the event and meeting industry and it also is a backbone of German economy.
Challenged to think of a sustainable event for a car producer, CO2 Emissions will be an obvious first thought. A second consideration should be: What is the impact on water resources in the automobile industry? Did you know that on average, the production of a car along the full supply chain takes around 400 000 litres of water per car?
To raise awareness for water challenges and to apply innovative technologies to reduce water in the production process can be a different topic for any car events—to showcase successful steps taken, raise awareness and support local water legacy projects in the event destinations.
What exactly are the areas of water use within the automobile industry?
- Manufacturing Processes: Automobile manufacturing involves various processes that require water, such as surface treatment, cooling, cleaning, and painting. These processes can result in water pollution through the discharge of chemicals, heavy metals, and other pollutants if not properly managed.
- Supply Chain: The production of automobile components, including metals, plastics, and electronics, often requires significant amounts of water. Extraction of raw materials and manufacturing processes in the supply chain can contribute to water scarcity and pollution in certain regions.
- Vehicle Operation: Although not directly related to the industry itself, the use of automobiles contributes to water consumption indirectly through fuel production. The production of biofuels, such as ethanol, can be water-and soil intensive, depending on the biomass used for the process (e g corn and sugarcane).
- Car Washes and Maintenance: Car washes and maintenance facilities consume water for cleaning vehicles and equipment. If not properly managed, these operations can lead to excessive water use and the discharge of pollutants into water bodies.
However, various strategies are in place to mitigate the impact on water resources in the automobile industry, such as:
- Water Recycling and Waste Water Treatment: Many automobile manufacturers have implemented water recycling systems within their manufacturing facilities. This allows for the reuse of water in certain processes, reducing overall water consumption and discharge. With new technologies, wastewater can actually be recycled again and again to achieve a waste-water free production cycle.
- Sustainable Supply Chain Practices: Companies are increasingly focusing on sustainable sourcing practices and encouraging their suppliers to adopt responsible water management strategies. This includes evaluating suppliers’ water use efficiency and environmental practices.
- Technological Advancements: The development of more water-efficient manufacturing processes and technologies can help reduce water consumption and pollution in the industry. For instance, waterless car wash systems and more efficient cooling systems can minimize water use.
- Awareness and Education: Creating awareness among employees, suppliers, and consumers about the importance of water conservation and responsible water management can lead to more conscious decision-making and practices.
Organizing events in or for the car industry, can be a good opportunity to show engagement and care for water, raise awareness for important sustainability issues and support local water initiatives in the destination.
We will be happy to advise about new experiences for your clients with a very important focus: to care about Water and Sanitation and do what you can to save, appreciate and restore water in industrial production and daily business.
Of course, it is not only the automobile industry which does impact water resources, other sectors, such as agriculture, energy production, and urban development, also play significant roles in water resource management.
Stay with us to learn more connections between industries, events, and Water Care and contact us for more information.
