Pioneering Global Sustainability Through Smart Water Management
As technology advances, the awareness of environmental protection increases. TSMC, the world’s leading dedicated semiconductor foundry, is demonstrating how a commitment to innovation directly translates into practical, measurable advancements in water conservation. Recognizing water as a critical shared resource, the company’s strategy moves beyond simple efficiency to implement a holistic water positive goal, aimed at giving back more water than is consumed in certain regions.
So, how is TSMC redefining water stewardship across its global operations? They are setting new standards for their industry while creating a sustainable future, as showcased in the video: “TSMC: Pioneering Global Sustainability Through Smart Water Management.”
Driving Innovation in Smart Water Management Across Continents
Across advanced fabs in the regions it operates, the company combines leading-edge technology with localized water management practices, demonstrating that manufacturing excellence and environmental preservation can coexist. Their video highlights initiatives, tailored to local conditions, all united by a singular commitment – sustainability. TSMC balances technological demand with ecological responsibility. As Ryuji Sakamoto, department manager, Facility Department, JASM, noted, “Our system is unique because we have adapted our technologies to Kumamoto’s specific environment.”
Towards Zero Water Waste: A Bold Vision for 2030
The semiconductor industry is water-intensive, requiring ultrapure water, presenting a significant challenge to the industry. But it is one that TSMC is redefining. As Lora Ho, senior vice president and chairperson of the Sustainability Committee, TSMC, explained, “TSMC is dedicated to driving positive change by utilizing cutting-edge innovation to tackle urgent global challenges, including carbon reduction, water stewardship, and sustainable supply chain management.”
One key initiative is TSMC’s goal to achieve zero water waste in all fabs by 2030. This vision aligns directly with the UN Sustainable Development Goal #6 (Clean Water and Sanitation). Supporting these ambitious goals and demonstrating the effectiveness of their efforts in its facilities in Taiwan have consistently earned the ‘Platinum’ certification from the Alliance for Water Stewardship (AWS) for five consecutive years. This recognition underscores TSMC’s sustained leadership in advanced water management. Achieving this requires scaling recycling technologies and exploring innovative reuse methods. This is particularly evident in Arizona, where the dry, desert environment demands maximum efficiency. Ryan Zanes, technical manager, Facility Department, TSMC Arizona, emphasized: “Currently we reclaim 65% of water and we are thinking how to reclaim more water or be a water positive side to actually put water back to the city of Phoenix.” Lacey Suastegui, Water Resource Program section manager, TSMC Arizona, added, “Our industrial reclamation water plant (IRWP) will reclaim up to 85%. In the future, we’ve planned a pilot advanced polishing system, which will allow us to reach a 90% reclaim rate.”
A Sustainable Future, Built Together
TSMC, a recognized industry leader in sustainability, sets the standard for innovation and environmental responsibility, demonstrating the importance of environmental stewardship and encouraging industries worldwide to prioritize environmental protection. This unified global vision for sustainability proves that a sustainable balance between technology and nature is not just possible, but essential for our shared future. As Lora added, echoing the company’s long-held philosophy, “Technological growth and environmental sustainability can co-exist. ‘Good ethic is good business,’ this is from our founder, Dr. Morris Chang, 38 years ago.”
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