An analysis of indirect water withdrawal and consumption due to electricity and workers in automotive manufacturing facilities

Abstract

Water is a key resource for all life. Recent droughts have also exemplified the importance for manufacturers to understand their impact on water resources. While most manufacturers typically know the amount of water they use in their facilities, they have little knowledge about the indirect effects they have on water resources. In this paper, the indirect impact from the automakers’ electricity use and work force on water resources is examined. Water withdrawal and consumption from electricity use by hypothetical but representative facilities around the world is quantified and analysed. Water withdrawal by the workers is also quantified and analysed. The results indicate that the water withdrawal and consumption by the workforce and caused by the use of electricity is larger than the direct water use and consumption in the facilities themselves.