Annual high and low variance in water usage rates
Unit
Indicator
Metric type
Framework alignment notes
AWS 1.3.3 Site water balance, inflows, losses, storage, and outflows, including indication of annual variance in water usage rates, shall be quantified. Where there is a water-related challenge that would be a threat to good water balance for people or environment, an indication of annual high and low variances shall be quantified
ISO 14046 - quantities of water used (including water withdrawal and release)
types of water resources used (including for water withdrawal and water receiving body)
seasonal changes in water flows, water withdrawal and release or changes in water quality, when relevant
Target example
[Company name] will ensure that the high and low variance in its water usage rates in [basin] match sustainable limits for the basin by the [target year].
Target source: WBCSD target template
Metric assessment
Relevance:
Medium
Feasibility:
Low
Additional Metric Notes
ACT-D stage
Assess
Maturity stage
Developing
Metric Contribution to Action
Quantifying usage variance over time enables sites to diagnose inefficiencies, understand seasonal or process-driven fluctuations, and adapt water use practices. Supports continuous improvement through refinement of stewardship plans.
Observations, Successes and Challenges
- Variability in usage doesn’t necessarily indicate unsustainable practices unless tied to overuse during critical periods.
- Potential for misinterpretation, e.g., A company with stable but high water usage might look better than one with fluctuating but ultimately lower water use.
- External factors influence variability, e.g., weather, supply chain disruptions, or regulatory changes
- Key challenge is ensuring sufficient frequency, accuracy, and context to enable meaningful conclusions. Sites must quantify variance using consistent methods, identify causes, and document in their Water Stewardship Plan to support adaptive action and continuous improvement.