The Water Footprint in the Spa Industry- Research Proposal

By Josee-Ann Cloutier
Master’s student in Wellness and Spa Service Design and Management. University of Tartu,
Parnu College, Estonia.

Main Objective

The purpose of the research is to apply a water accounting system within the spa industry
where water is a prominent resource and attraction. Is the water footprint a feasible indicator
in measuring the sustainability around water consumption and waste within the spa industry?
There are various areas to measure and investigate within the spa environment, which could
include: pools, hot tubs, steam rooms, saunas, cold plunges, water bottles, showers, toilets,
sinks, treatments, supply chain impacts with products, food and beverage, water filtrations
systems, ice machines, cleaning and sanitation systems and supplies.

Sub-objectives

University of Tartu, Parnu College:

 Develop a relationship and strong link between the management of natural resources
within the wellness and spa industry that relies heavily on natural resources to sustain.
 Develop a practical and beneficial tool that measures impacts concretely to increase
sustainable choices among businesses, organizations and consumers within the spa
industry.
 Ensure the long term sustainability between the health of the planet and people who
seek it in spas.

University of Wageningen:

 Offer the technical expertise and knowledge around the calculations and measurements
around water consumption and waste that can be applied within a water based spa.

Context

The wellness and spa industries continue to expand and grow, and many establishments
depend on water as a central element for relaxation, healing treatments and as a general
attraction. The root meaning of the word spa is “health by water”, since humans depend on
water for good health, and life, how does an industry ruled by water protect and manage its
most precious resource?

Managing water consumption and quality is vital to ensuring sustainability. Therefore,

measuring the impacts of water within the spa industry is not only a good idea, but necessary
to consider if the industry is to continue in the future. Further questions to consider in the
research process: Does the water footprint play an important role within the spa industry? If,
yes, how can it best be utilized? Does the water footprint measure water quality and
consumption within a spa accurately? What are the future implications of water scarcity and
quality on human health and the spa industry?

Time frame

The start and end date is currently flexible, but ideally it would be good to start mid to late February and
finish by mid June.

Work

I can write the research, background and theory about the spa industry, and the basic background and
knowledge around the water footprint. I will also find a spa to work with and be the point person for
communication, leading the research. The work required would ideally come from a motivated,
naturally interested student(s) in water sustainability and management with some prior knowledge and
preferable experience in the field of measurement and indicators. I’m looking for someone who has the
technical and mathematical mind around the logistical aspects in setting up, testing and analysis of the
water footprint and its application within this specific context.