Investing in Water: Treat, Measure, Distribute & ETF Ideas – UN Conference in New York

The global water crisis has grown in recent years. Yesterday, top politicians met in New York for the UN conference to discuss possible solutions and to confront the problem. The investment in the sector “water” will increase. Reason enough for a look at the question: How to invest in “water”? International corporations buy water sources, private investors think about shares and ETFs. A look at the UN conference in New York with 4 stock ideas and 3 ETFs you should know about.

Because, investing in water can not only help you invest in an important resource, but also contribute to sustainable economic growth and responsible resource use.

UN Conference in New York

This year’s UN conference in New York focused on a pressing question: What happens when water becomes scarce? Numerous German politicians were on hand to get an idea of the current situation and to discuss possible solutions.

When water becomes scarce: Causes

German Environment Minister Steffi Lemke was particularly committed to the event, calling for more decisive global action against the water crisis. As measures, she proposes a modern and safe infrastructure by 2050 to combat water shortages.

In fact, water scarcity is already a major problem in many regions of the world. Droughts, pollution and often poor supplies of clean water are just some of the causes. Agriculture and industrial material carriers are also often partly responsible for increased water consumption. To counteract the water shortage, the raw material water must be redistributed. Innovative technologies and responsible use are essential for this.

What was NYC specifically about?

Let’s start with António Guterres’ opening speech and then move on to the content of the conference.

Opening speech by António Guterres

Opening address by António Guterres, UN Secretary-General, at the 1st plenary session of the UN Water Conference 2023.

Water Conference: Contents

Water plays an important role in the Sustainable Development Goals and in the health and prosperity of people and the planet. Yet progress on water-related goals and targets falls alarmingly short of expectations, putting the entire sustainable development agenda at risk. That’s why United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres is calling for a bold water agenda that gives the vital element the attention it deserves.

3 pillars of development

Water is a fundamental component of all aspects of life and is inextricably linked to the three pillars of sustainable development. It integrates social, cultural, economic and political values and supports the achievement of many sustainability goals through close links with climate, energy, cities, environment, food security, poverty, gender equality and health, among others.

The conference, hosted by the governments of Tajikistan and the Netherlands, will feature six plenary sessions and five multi-stakeholder interactive dialogues. In addition, a number of special events and side events will be organized by member states, the UN system and other stakeholders.

Results of the conference

The outcome of the conference will be a summary of the conference events and new commitments, pledges and actions by governments and all stakeholders to achieve SDG 6 and other water-related goals and targets that will be summarized in the Water Agenda.

Investing in water: shares

International companies buy wells to secure fresh water access.

But, can you invest in “water” with less money?

Investments in “water stocks” that are involved in water treatment, distribution and purification are rising in perception. These companies benefit from large deals and contracts related to providing clean water for consumption.

Veolia: water treatment and purification

An example of a company that specializes in water treatment and purification is Veolia from France. The company also offers water recycling services, which makes it possible to use water several times.

Water Works: water treatment and purification

Water Works in the USA is also a major player in water distribution and purification. The company operates a large number of water treatment plants and supplies clean water to millions of people in the USA.

Xylem: pumps, filters and meters

Xylem Water Solutions & Technologies, also from the USA, is a leading manufacturer of pumps, filters and measuring equipment for monitoring water quality and salinity. The company is also active in the development of innovative solutions for water utilization.

Evoqua: Made in Germany

Another company specializing in water treatment and purification is Evoqua, formerly part of Siemens. The company offers a wide range of water treatment solutions, including membrane filtration, disinfection and chemical treatment.

List: 4 “Water shares

4 companies you should know:

• Veolia (France)
• Water Works (USA)
• Xylem (USA)
• Evoqua (Germany)

Investing in water: ETF

Another way to invest in water is to invest in water ETFs (exchange traded funds). Here are some examples:

IShares Global Water ETF

The iShares Global Water ETF comprises 50 international stocks from the water industry. The ETF offers investors access to companies active in water treatment, distribution and purification.

Invesco Water Resources ETF

The Invesco Water Resources ETF is another water ETF that offers investors access to companies that operate in the water industry. The ETF includes companies from various industries such as agriculture, energy and infrastructure that are relevant in terms of water use and resources.

L&G Clean Water ETF

Another water ETF is the L&G Clean Water ETF, which focuses on companies that specialize in providing clean water. The ETF includes companies from various industries, including water treatment, distribution, purification and technology.

Water ETFs can be a great way to invest in the water sector as they offer broad diversification and are an easy way to bet on global growth potential in the water industry.

List: 3 “Water ETFs

3 ETFs you should know:

• IShare gloal Water – 50 shares international from sector
• Invesco Water Resources ETF
• L&G Clean Water

Not investment advice or a recommendation to buy.

All information provided here does not constitute investment advice or a recommendation to buy. All statements are my general published opinion. I have obtained the information from my experience as a private investor. This experience report cannot and is not intended to replace personal investment advice from professionals.