Water is one of the most scrutinised BRSR metrics. Principle 6 requires detailed reporting on water withdrawal, consumption, discharge quality, recycling rates, and intensity. Getting water data right is essential for both BRSR filing and BRSR Core assurance.
BRSR Water Disclosures
Essential Indicators
- Total water withdrawal by source (surface, groundwater, third-party, seawater, rainwater)
- Total water consumption and intensity ratio
- Water discharge by destination and treatment level
- Water withdrawal from areas of water stress
Leadership Indicators
- Water recycled and reused
- Water stewardship initiatives
- Engagement with communities on water issues
Zero Liquid Discharge (ZLD)
CPCB mandates ZLD for several highly polluting industries including textile dyeing, distilleries, tanneries, and pulp & paper. ZLD ensures no liquid effluent is discharged — all water is recovered and only solid residue remains.
Data Collection Best Practices
- Install flow meters at all water intake and discharge points
- Maintain monthly water balance records
- Track water quality at discharge points (pH, BOD, COD, TSS)
- Document water stress status using WRI Aqueduct or India-WRIS
Use our Water & Waste Tracker for compliance monitoring, or WaterBalance Pro for comprehensive water balance analysis and ZLD planning.