Annual high and low variance in water usage rates
Unit
Indicator
Metric type
Framework alignment notes
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/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.