Turning net-zero ambition into action for water utilities

Water utilities around the world are committing to net-zero emissions but translating ambition into action remains challenging. A survey of 28 water utilities across six countries highlights where progress is being made, where gaps remain and what practical steps can accelerate results. These insights informed the development of a step-by-step best practice approach and self-evaluation tool that supports utilities in focusing action where emission reductions are most important.

The study reinforces that credible net-zero strategies begin with robust greenhouse gas (GHG) inventories. While many utilities track Scope 1, Scope 2 and increasingly Scope 3 emissions, uncertainty around wastewater process emissions such as nitrous oxide (N₂O) and methane (CH₄), which are often the largest and least understood sources, limits confidence in implementing mitigations. Improving inventories beyond energy-focused emissions provides clearer visibility of the true carbon footprint and enables higher-impact reduction opportunities.

While energy efficiency and renewable power remain foundational, the survey shows a shift toward process-based mitigation. Optimizing aeration, managing ammonia loads and improving biogas capture and utilization are emerging as impactful ways to reduce N₂O and CH₄. These measures are closely linked to process performance, creating opportunities for simultaneous improvements in operational stability, safety and cost, strengthening the business case for action.

More than 90% of surveyed utilities report current or future climate impacts on operations, yet adaptation is often treated separately from decarbonization. The study highlights the importance of integrating adaptation and resilience into net-zero planning to align infrastructure upgrades that address climate change risk while avoiding high-emissions pathways.

The survey reveals a sector ready to act. Utilities are steadily expanding their net-zero efforts, building on early successes and expanding their understanding of emissions, while navigating practical constraints, such as limited guidance, technical uncertainty and capacity challenges. A consistent theme was not a lack of support or ambition, but uncertainty about how to move forward beyond initial actions. These insights underscore the need for a clear step-by-step pathway that translates experiences into practical direction and helps utilities focus efforts where it matters the most.

Drawing on real-world utility experience, the authors developed a step-by-step Net-Zero Strategy Best Practice Framework. The framework guides utilities through evaluation, planning, implementation and continuous refinement, supported by a Maturity-Based Self-Evaluation Checklist Tool. Together, they help utilities avoid piecemeal action, focus on the most impactful measures and adapt as technologies and knowledge evolve.

The key lesson is clear: net-zero success comes from connecting and learning from others, staying current with evolving practice and applying step-by-step decision-making to focus on the most impactful actions, recognizing that progress is iterative and informed by shared experience over time.

To learn more about this work, view the entire article (including the Maturity-Based Checklist Tool) published through the International Water Association’s Journal of Water Practice and Technology here.