Responsibility for sustainable water consumption in the global supply chains

Freshwater, a limited natural resource, is unevenly distributed worldwide; this limited availability necessitates the virtual water trade in global supply chains, which may induce freshwater overconsumption (beyond carrying capacities). The dependency on remote water resources is imperceptible and barely recognized by consumers indirectly inducing water consumption. Here, we highlight the significance of remotely induced water con-sumption through supply chains and considerations for assessing and managing the sustainability of water re-sources through a case study of the Japanese national water footprint. The blue water consumption induced by the Japanese final demand (53.2 Billion m3) is approximately three times the volume saved through virtual water trade. For the compatible achievement of global and local sustainability of freshwater use, the hotspots in the global supply chains must be identified by considering three additional aspects in parallel, i.e., the concentration of overconsumption, pressure of overconsumption, and proportion to the local total overconsumption amount.

Automated summary

Freshwater, a limited natural resource, is distributed unevenly worldwide, leading to virtual water trade in global supply chains that may result in excessive consumption. The dependence on remote water resources is often overlooked, indirectly driving water consumption by consumers. Through a case study of Japan's water footprint, this study highlights the importance of considering remotely induced water consumption and managing water resources sustainably. The blue water consumption induced by Japan's final demand is three times the volume saved through virtual water trade. To achieve global and local sustainability in freshwater use, hotspots in global supply chains must be identified by considering the concentration, pressure, and proportion of overconsumption.