Download This PaperDrought, Water Scarcity and UK Businesses and Industries. An Exploratory Study into Challenges and Opportunities
20 Pages Posted: 22 Oct 2018
Date Written: September 28, 2018
Abstract
In water resources management and drought and water scarcity management specifically, large business and industrial abstractors are a neglected stakeholder group. Yet, supply chains and production processes often rely on continuous water supply. Droughts and water scarcity can therefore have an adverse effect on businesses and industry. This exploratory study focus' on the UK, where droughts are a recurring feature of the climate, and three business sectors - horticulture, food and drink and the Scotch whisky industry. The analysis of interviews with trade bodies from the three sectors is complemented by relevant literature and documents. The findings show that the role of drought within each sector differs, how important relationships with other business and industry sectors are, as well as the importance of good relationships with regulatory bodies and water companies. The results highlight that proactive measures such as new water saving technologies or water recycling, are of equal importance.
Keywords: UK, drought, water scarcity, business, industry, water management
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