In 2021, we announced our water stewardship target to replenish 120% of the water we consume, on average, across our offices and data centers by 2030. We also committed to support water security in communities where we operate. Today, on World Water Day, we’re sharing updates on three partnerships that help address water scarcity and access challenges in watersheds where we operate in India, which faces some of the toughest water challenges in the world.

India faces acute water stress, supporting 18% of the world’s population, but with access to just 4% of the world’s freshwater resources. Climate change will likely accentuate the water-scarce conditions facing communities across India.

Addressing these challenges will take collective action. To help, we’re working through local partners to restore a lake in Hyderabad, reopen 20 wells in three cities and expand access to clean water in Hyderabad communities. These projects not only support our replenishment and water security goals, they also help strengthen public health in the communities that make up an important part of our global workforce.

Restoring Mullakathuva Lake

Hyderabad, India, was once renowned for the number and beauty of its lakes — both natural and artificial. Over time, due to encroachment and other human activity, several of these lakes have either disappeared or are unable to sustain aquatic life.

We’re working with the United Way of Hyderabad to begin the restoration of the Mullakathuva Lake in northwest Hyderabad, which suffers from poor water quality because of sewage, silt and other debris. Project partners are clearing silt from the lake bottom and removing debris to expand the lake’s storage capacity, and they’re creating wetlands to help treat inbound pollution.

The project team is also planting trees and other wetland species to improve habitat quality and create recreational green space for the community.