Ecolab, a global sustainability leader offering water solutions and services and the parent company of US-based Nalco Water, has revealed growing consumer awareness in Saudi Arabia for climate change and water in its inaugural study.

 

The group's inaugural Ecolab Watermark Study measures the state of water stewardship through water’s importance, usage, connection to climate and responsibility among key consumer populations.

 

The study is the first to include Saudi consumers’ attitudes towards climate change and water, and highlights a growing sense of urgency in the kingdom regarding water safety, conservation, and the need for industry to increase sustainability measures. 

 

The key findings of the study are:

•53% of Saudi consumers list clean and safe water as a significant environmental concern

•66% of Saudi consumers believe clean and safe water will be an issue within the next 5 years

•80% of Saudi consumers agree that water scarcity can be effectively addressed  

•74% of Saudi consumers believe manufacturers/businesses lack clear guidance and/or plans to combat water scarcity

•Approximately 75% of Saudi consumers perceive government leaders to have a higher level of concern about their impact on water conservation and climate change compared to business and non-profit leaders

 

These findings reinforce Ecolab’s ongoing partnerships with Saudi government and industry to support sustainability efforts. 

 

Stefan Umiastowski, Ecolab’s Senior Vice-President & Market Head for India, Middle East and Africa, said these findings show there is a growing sense of urgency in the kingdom regarding water security, conservation, and pressing need for industries to adopt more sustainable water management practices. 

 

"The good news for industry is that meeting this responsibility will not only deliver positive sustainability but tangible business outcomes too. Through the study, we hope to encourage, educate, and inspire others to take action in protecting this vital resource," stated Umiastowski.  

 

By focusing on water and consumer perceptions of the ongoing crisis, Ecolab’s Watermark Study provides insights on where and how stakeholders - government, businesses, NGOs or even individuals - can work together to successfully address critical global challenges, he added.

 

According to the World Resources Institute (WRI), by 2030 our planet is set to face a 56% water deficit, and 1.6 billion people will lack safely managed drinking water, as per a United Nations report. 

 

The Middle East and Northern Africa (Mena) region has been recognized as the most water-stressed region in the world, with some 83% of the region's population exposed to water stress caused by climate change.