In the real estate industry, water water is an indispensable resource due to its extensive use in various daily operations and the functioning of buildings.

For this reason, it is important to promote effective water-conscious methods that not only help to care for water, but also contribute to raising awareness of its scarcity or low availability.

In this second article in our series on the water footprint in the real estate sectorwe will continue to explore how water impacts the construction, use and maintenance of properties and infrastructure.
This time, we will focus on concrete strategies to reduce the water footprint and encourage sustainable practices in the real estate sector.

Promoting water footprint awareness in the real estate sector

  Based on a study by the Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, which analyzes the water footprint from the materials used in the construction of a building, it was defined that each square meter of residential construction generates a blue water footprint of 5 m3. The construction of buildings and homes involves the use of water at various stages, such as the production of building materials, the concrete mixing process and the water needed for the construction itself.
In addition, the daily use of water inside buildings, such as human consumption, cleaning and garden irrigation, also contributes to the water footprint.  

How to reduce the water footprint of real estate?

  To reduce the water footprint in the real estate sector, it is important to implement sustainable practices and efficient technologies that minimize water consumption:

1. Water-efficient technology: Install low-flow devices on faucets, showers, and toilets.
   Use sensors and automated systems to control and minimize water use in common areas.
2. Rainwater harvesting and reuse: Implement rainwater harvesting systems for use in landscape irrigation, floor washing, or other non-potable tasks.
   This reduces dependence on potable water supply and helps conserve resources.
3. Sustainable landscaping: Use native and drought-resistant plants in gardens and green areas, as well as landscaping techniques that minimize the need for irrigation.
   It is also important to maintain efficient irrigation systems and avoid excessive or unnecessary watering.
4. Education and awareness: Promote education on the importance of water and the need for water conservation among residents, employees and customers.
5. Water consumption monitoring and management: Implement systems to measure and monitor water consumption in buildings and properties.
   This allows identifying areas of high consumption and taking measures to reduce it, as well as detecting leaks or plumbing problems in a timely manner.
6. Sustainable building certifications and standards: Seek sustainable building certifications and standards that include specific criteria related to water efficiency.
   These standards encourage sustainable practices in the design, construction, and operation of buildings.
7. Wastewater treatment and reuse: Consider the implementation of wastewater treatment systems in buildings that allow reuse for non-potable tasks, such as flushing toilets or watering gardens.
   This reduces the demand for potable water and contributes to conservation.

The importance of responsible water management in the real estate sector

  Reducing the water footprint in real estate not only contributes to water conservation, but also generates economic benefits and promotes sustainable development.
By implementing these strategies, we can move towards a future where responsible water management is a priority in the real estate sector, preserving this essential resource for present and future generations.