If zero liquid discharge (ZLD) is too costly, water reuse and sustainability can still be prioritized and realized through minimal liquid
discharge (MLD).
By Snehal Desai, Steve Rosenberg, and Nanette Hermsen
A
s we move toward a circular economy based on
virtually no waste, with raw materials continually
recycled and reused, the crucial role water plays is
top of mind for corporate leaders across the globe.
Conversations around water supply challenges have
penetrated the boardroom level in 62 percent of large
companies, according to the Carbon Disclosure Project (CDP),
unlike in years past when sustainable practices were relegated
to mid-level management. Moreover, almost a quarter of the
830 companies surveyed by the CDP said that water-related
issues could limit the growth of their businesses.
1
Manufacturing is one of the sectors
most vulnerable to water shortages. With
global water demand for manufacturing
anticipated to increase by 400 percent from
2000 to 2050,
2
maximizing the efficient
use of water by industry is a critical step
in the right direction — for both the
environment and the bottom line.
Adopting A Minimal
Liquid Discharge Mindset
Business value is at risk if companies don't
take capital considerations surrounding
water use into account and adjust their
operations accordingly. Companies
must strike a balance between meeting
their objectives and what is practical or
reasonable in terms of costs.
While zero liquid discharge (ZLD) — a water treatment
process in which all wastewater produced is purified and
recycled, leaving zero liquid discharge at the end of the
treatment cycle — is a viable solution for some companies, it's
not the most realistic solution for all, given the steep price tag.
When facing significant discharge mitigation costs,
businesses often wonder, "What are my other options besides
ZLD?" One solution is minimal liquid discharge (MLD), an
approach adopted by brand names like General Motors and
Frito-Lay. MLD is a more cost-effective and sustainable way
for companies to improve their water footprint, enabling up
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wateronline.com
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Water Innovations
Minimal Liquid Discharge:
Adopting A "Less Is More"
Mindset