Out of Sight, Out of Mind: The Cost of Water Leakage

High leakage levels in water systems are primarily due to the materials used for pipes, often metal, which corrode and create cracks, and insufficient maintenance funding. Countries with lower leakage levels tend to have higher water costs, leading to better investment in leak repairs. The problem is exacerbated by the hidden nature of many leaks, with most water loss occurring through small, unnoticed leaks rather than dramatic bursts that are visibly fixed. This invisibility contributes to the difficulty for utility firms in detecting and repairing leaks, as they often need to excavate roads to locate them. Consequently, the water lost through these leaks represents significant financial losses, amounting to billions globally, as treated water fails to reach consumers.