AEM study highlights how equipment advancements are driving major water savings

The Association of Equipment Manufacturers (AEM) has released a new study showing how technological innovations across agriculture, construction and utility industries are helping organizations achieve greater productivity while using significantly less water.

The report, From Source to Solution: Advancing Water Stewardship in the Non-Road Sector, was developed in partnership with AEM member company and global consulting firm Kearney. It highlights real-world examples of how equipment manufacturers are enabling large-scale water savings across North America. The full report is available on the AEM Insights page.

“This study demonstrates that North American equipment manufacturers are doing more than just supplying innovative and cutting-edge equipment – they are enabling some of the most advanced water stewardship practices in the world,” said Curt Blades, AEM senior vice president of agriculture services and forestry, in a press release. “It also serves as a valuable resource for AEM, our members, and our industry peers, as we seek to develop a cohesive and comprehensive message around water management for our industry.”

According to the study, modern irrigation practices in the U.S. are saving 9.7 trillion gallons of water annually. Meanwhile, innovations in concrete production have reduced freshwater use by up to 20% in new production, and field-scale conservation practices are producing measurable water-quality improvements across multiple U.S. watersheds.

The report also notes that efficiency gains in the utility sector are saving nearly 4 trillion gallons of water each year in the U.S. and Canada. Overall, North American industrial water use has grown increasingly efficient over the past two decades, generating more economic value per unit of water.

“Now that the study has been released, AEM and our members are excited to see it used to help our industry grow in its understanding of the current water landscape and support improved water use efficiency,” said Austin Gellings, AEM senior director of agriculture services, in a press release.

Beyond data and case studies, the report outlines AEM’s goals to:

• Unite the equipment industry around a shared message on water management

• Inform the public about ongoing progress

• Influence policymakers to advance legislation that supports continued innovation in water stewardship

This study continues AEM’s collaboration with Kearney, which has produced several industry research efforts aimed at supporting sustainable growth and efficiency. Earlier this year, the two organizations also released Benefits of Precision Ag in the United States, showing how technology adoption in agriculture strengthens yields, reduces inputs, and boosts supply chain resiliency.