What's Happening?
The Water Resources Planning Organisation (WARPO) in Bangladesh is advancing efforts to optimize industrial water use through the development of new guidelines, following the approval of a draft policy. This initiative is part of a broader strategy to manage
the increasing demand for water in the industrial sector, which currently accounts for 2-3% of the country's total water withdrawal. The policy aims to ensure the judicious allocation of water resources to support economic development, poverty alleviation, and environmental protection. WARPO, as the national agency responsible for water resource planning, is tasked with integrating water availability and hydrological limits into industrial zoning and planning decisions. The organization is also addressing data gaps in industrial groundwater abstractions, which include unregistered and unmetered abstraction and limited enforcement capacity.
Why It's Important?
The development of these guidelines is crucial for sustainable industrial growth in Bangladesh, particularly as the demand for water in the industrial sector is expected to grow rapidly. Effective water management is essential to maintain competitiveness and support the expansion of water-intensive industries such as garments, textiles, leather, and pharmaceuticals. By ensuring sustainable water use, the policy supports the national goals of economic development and environmental protection. The initiative also aligns with global sustainability standards, potentially enhancing the international competitiveness of Bangladesh's industrial sectors. Furthermore, the focus on water recycling and reuse could significantly reduce freshwater withdrawal and industrial pollution, contributing to long-term environmental sustainability.
What's Next?
Following the approval of the draft policy, WARPO will develop specific guidelines for optimal water use in the industrial sector. The organization is also expected to continue its collaboration with the World Bank's 2030 Water Resources Group to scale up water reuse practices. A demonstration plant in Narayanganj is set to showcase the potential of water recycling, aiming to reduce freshwater use by 30% annually. The government may also consider imposing tariffs on excessive water use to encourage conservation. These steps are part of a comprehensive approach to ensure water security and support sustainable industrial development in Bangladesh.
