Because water resources are limited, we constantly strive to use less water and to improve the quality of our discharges. We are also strengthening methods to prevent and manage marine and freshwater pollution.

Reducing water use

Total has a dedicated working group tasked with water conservation. We have implemented a process that involves several phases:

• A survey of water withdrawal and discharges at all of our sites. Conducted in 2004, the survey revealed the need to implement action plans tailored to each activity and type of facility.
• Pilot programs to reduce water use. In 2005, six pilot plants in each of our segments looked at potential areas of savings at their level.
• Feedback in the form of a methodological guide scheduled for publication in 2007. The guide will help sites to set clear-cut targets for reducing their water use.

Continuing to improve discharge quality

Thanks to Exploration & Production's improvement program, the hydrocarbon content of water discharges had already been reduced by more than two-thirds between 2000 and 2005. The 2007 target of no more than 30 parts per million (ppm) will soon be met at all of our subsidiaries.

Oil spills of more than one barrel (159 liters) are subject to systematic reporting, and for larger spills, the feedback process is also activated.

In Refining, a program is being implemented to improve the wastewater treatment facilities at all of our refineries.

In 2006, Chemicals exceeded its targets for reducing freshwater withdrawal and chemical oxygen demand (COD) discharges.

To meet the European Union objective of achieving good ecological and chemical status in all surface water bodies by 2015, other programs are also being deployed across our businesses, with a particular focus on micropollutants and persistent, bioaccumulative and toxic (PBT) substances.

Strengthening resources to prevent and manage marine and freshwater pollution

Comprising around 30 in-house experts, the Corapol team was set up specifically to coordinate pollution control resources and respond to spills. Working mainly with CEDRE, a French organization that conducts research into accidental water pollution, the team manages a number of R&D programs on pollution control and the restoration of affected areas. It also ensures the preparedness of the in-house and external resources that may be required to deal with a spill.