Water consumption analysis and water saving potential in wildlife facilities: a case study of Barcelona Zoo

Zoos are significant water consumers, exacerbating water scarcity challenges and impacting animal welfare. Despite the urgent need for effective water management in zoos, research on water saving remains limited. This study analyzes water consumption and potential of water saving strategies for animal welfare, using to Barcelona Zoo as a case study. Barcelona zoo’s historical water consumption averages 423,747 m³ annually, equivalent to the daily water usage of approximately 10,554 people. Fluctuations in consumption are linked to renovations, rather than seasonal variations, due to the zoo’s effective water ponds renewal, cleaning procedures, and filtration systems. Water is mainly sourced from potable water (68% of total input), with seawater utilized in certain animal habitats, including for Spheniscus humboldti (Humboldt penguins) and Zalophus californianus (California sea lions). The animal ponds with the highest water consumption are Choeropsis liberiensis (Pygmy hippopotamus), Ursus arctos arctos (Eurasian brown bear), and Hippopotamus amphibius (Hippopotamus). While water consumption remains stable year-round, opportunities for water reuse, particularly in cleaning and filtration processes, are identified as critical for improving water efficiency. This study emphasizes the need for targeted water management strategies in zoos, emphasizing the importance of recycling wastewater, optimizing filtration systems, and exploring water conservation initiatives. The findings from Barcelona Zoo offer transferable sustainable water management practices for zoological and wildlife facilities, reducing demand and enhancing environmental sustainability.