Grey water footprint assessment and challenges for its implementation

One of the most complex aspects of water accounting is the assessment of point and diffuse source pollution resulting from various human activities. The development of the grey water footprint indicator is one of the methods to quantify water pollution. The grey water footprint refers to the volume of water that is required to assimilate the loads of pollutants based on natural background concentrations and existing water quality standards. The calculations that are using the Water Footprint Methodology are indicating the substantial grey water footprint of a crop or product and the impact produced. Further evaluation using local-specific water quality studies is required and an evolution of a better understanding of localized water quality impacts and the efficiency of possible management practices in reducing impacts on water resources is also needed. Therefore, in this study the grey water footprint for eight most relevant crops in Prut-Barlad catchment was calculated for 2005-2008 period. Besides, there were discussed the necessary improvements and standardization of the calculating methodology for the grey water footprint.