Wisconsin possesses abundant freshwater resources; however, they are at risk from biological, chemical, and climate impacts. The greatest risks to our surface and ground water include phosphorus, nitrates, suspended solids, mercury, chlorides, pharmaceuticals, and pathogens. Additionally, infrastructure challenges can cause issues with availability or increased treatment costs.

To ensure that we will always have freshwater available and minimize risks, water resilience needs to be incorporated into business practices. Water resilience is an integrated approach to resource management that incorporates monitoring, energy saving, discharge minimization, and usage maximization. The development of best practices, certifications, sensors, and controls have been successfully implemented across the globe. Water resilience is a driving factor in the creation of innovative technologies.

Wisconsin is home to The Water Council and Green Bay Packaging, which has achieved net-zero water in its new mill completed in 2021. This program will introduce you to these organizations in a two-part event. Part one includes an in-person presentation and tour of Green Bay Packaging. Part two is a webinar with information from Green Bay Packaging, The Water Council and the Wisconsin Sustainable Business Council. Attendees can register for both sessions or just the webinar.