The Hidden Water Costs of Your Morning Brew with your Smartphone: A Qualitative Study on Coffee's and Smartphone’s Water Footprint

Abstract

Water footprinting is an essential concept for understanding the total amount of freshwater used to produce goods and services throughout their entire lifecycle. This measurement includes three primary components: green water (rainwater utilized by plants), blue water (surface and groundwater used in irrigation and processing), and grey water (water needed to dilute pollutants). By quantifying these aspects, water footprinting provides insights into the impact of various activities on freshwater resources and highlights opportunities for more sustainable water use. Despite its significance, awareness of water footprinting remains low among the general public, often due to the complexity of the concept and limited educational outreach. This lack of awareness can lead to unsustainable practices, inefficiencies, and increased environmental impacts. Addressing this issue through improved education, transparency, and community involvement is crucial for fostering informed decision-making and promoting responsible water use.