American Water Works Company, Inc., commonly known as American Water, is a leading provider of steam and hot water supply services headquartered in the United States. Founded in 1886, the company has established a strong presence across various regions, delivering essential services to residential, commercial, and industrial customers.
Specialising in steam and hot water solutions, American Water is recognised for its commitment to sustainability and innovation. The company offers a range of core services, including district heating and energy-efficient hot water systems, which set it apart in the industry. With a focus on reliability and customer satisfaction, American Water has achieved significant milestones, solidifying its position as a trusted leader in the steam and hot water supply sector.
+39 vs industry average
American Waterβs score of 63 is higher than 76% of the industry. This can give you a sense of how well the company is doing compared to its peers.
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Industry Intensity
Steam and Hot Water Supply is among the most carbon-intensive industries
Industry performance
The Steam and Hot Water Supply industry has reduced its overall emissions by 32% since 2018
Emissions trajectory 2020 β 2028
Reported emissions
Scope 3 accounts for β’β’β’ of total emissions.
American Water's reported carbon emissions
American Water, a leader in the US steam and hot water supply services industry, has demonstrated a commitment to reducing its environmental impact through comprehensive carbon emissions reporting and ambitious reduction targets.
Recent Emissions Data:
- 2025: Total emissions were approximately 1.31 billion kg CO2e. This breaks down into approximately 73.7 million kg CO2e for Scope 1, approximately 424.9 million kg CO2e for Scope 2 (location-based), and approximately 806 million kg CO2e for Scope 3.
- 2024: Total emissions were approximately 1.22 billion kg CO2e. Scope 1 emissions amounted to approximately 69.4 million kg CO2e, Scope 2 (location-based) to approximately 430.4 million kg CO2e, and Scope 3 to approximately 758 million kg CO2e.
- 2023: The company reported approximately 1.28 billion kg CO2e in total emissions. This comprised approximately 74.9 million kg CO2e for Scope 1, approximately 459.9 million kg CO2e for Scope 2 (location-based), and approximately 649 million kg CO2e for Scope 3.
- 2022: Total emissions were approximately 1.15 billion kg CO2e, with Scope 1 at approximately 69.7 million kg CO2e and Scope 2 (location-based) at approximately 487.8 million kg CO2e. Scope 3 emissions were approximately 594 million kg CO2e.
- 2021: American Water reported approximately 1.04 billion kg CO2e in total emissions. Scope 1 emissions were approximately 73.5 million kg CO2e, while Scope 2 (location-based) emissions were approximately 460.9 million kg CO2e. Scope 3 emissions totalled approximately 506 million kg CO2e.
Climate Commitments and Reduction Targets:
American Water has set significant climate targets:
- Near-Term Target: The company is committed to reducing its absolute Scope 1 and Scope 2 greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by more than 40% by 2025, using a 2007 baseline. Data from 2021 and 2024 reports indicate progress towards this goal, with the 2021 data showing the company on track for Scope 2 emissions.
- Long-Term Targets:
- American Water aims to reduce absolute Scope 1 and Scope 2 emissions by 50% by 2035, measured from a 2020 baseline.
- A significant long-term objective is to achieve net-zero absolute Scope 1 and Scope 2 emissions by 2050.
These commitments underscore American Water's dedication to environmental stewardship and a sustainable future within the essential services sector. The company is actively reporting across all three scopes, demonstrating a comprehensive approach to managing its climate impact.
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American Waterβs Climate Goals (2030 & 2050)
8 goals2025
40% reduction in all scopes
Reduce absolute scope 1 and scope 2 greenhouse gas emissions by more than 40% by 2025 from a 2007 baseline
2030
62% reduction in total GHG
Vs 2019 baseline. Validated by SBTi. Includes full supply chain.
2040
50% reduction in Scope 3 intensity
Across purchased goods and services and logistics.
See all 8 climate goals
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Scope 3 top emissions categories
3 of 15 categories disclosedSee all scope 3 categories
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Climate initiatives
Science Based Targets Initiative
Carbon Disclosure Project
The Climate Pledge
UN Global Compact Climate Champions initiative
RE 100
Climate Action 100
Emissions comparison with industry peers
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American Water
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