What role does technological innovation play in achieving net positive water goals, and how can it be further harnessed to promote sustainable water use?
In this InTechnology [What That Means] video, Camille talks with Vanessa Lanas Delbridge, Senior Environmental Engineer at Intel. They get into Intel’s water usage in semiconductor manufacturing and the company’s efforts towards water conservation and restoration.
Intel’s Water Usage in Semiconductor Manufacturing
The conversation opens with Camille inquiring about Vanessa’s experience managing industrial wastewater at Intel’s Ronler Acres facility. From there, Camille broadens the discussion to water’s role in semiconductor manufacturing. Vanessa emphasizes water’s unexpected importance in the industry, detailing its use in wafer cleaning, cooling towers, emissions treatment, and other operations. She also explains how Intel uses digital twins –an online representation of the company’s operations – to track and optimize water usage across its facilities.
Net Positive Water by 2030
Camille and Vanessa delve into Intel’s ambitious goal of achieving net positive water status by 2030, meaning the company will restore more water to the environment than it consumes. Vanessa outlines a two-pronged strategy: water conservation within Intel’s operations and funding external water restoration projects. She highlights significant water savings from reclamation facilities and innovative collaborations with tool suppliers. Additionally, Vanessa explains how Intel partners with diverse organizations to fund water restoration projects tailored to the needs of local watersheds. These projects include nature-based solutions and infrastructure upgrades, aiming to minimize Intel’s environmental impact and contribute to the health and sustainability of shared watersheds in the communities where it operates..
Vanessa’s Journey to Water Stewardship at Intel
The interview takes a personal turn as Camille asks about Vanessa’s journey into water conservation. Reflecting on her upbringing in Quito, Ecuador, Vanessa shares her lifelong passion for environmental work and water’s central role in her career. She expresses her belief in responsible resource management, particularly in water-intensive industries like semiconductor manufacturing. With the growing demand for semiconductors, Intel’s dedication to water conservation and restoration serves as an inspiring model for sustainable practices in the industry.
Vanessa Lanas Delbridge, Senior Environmental Engineer at Intel
Vanessa Lanas Delbridge leads the implementation of Intel’s global water stewardship strategy. A Senior Environmental Engineer, her commitment is to Intel achieving net-positive water by 2030 and to strengthening diversity and inclusion in the industry. Through 17 years of experience, she has managed industrial wastewater compliance at one of Intel’s largest semiconductor research and high-volume manufacturing facilities, led environmental programs including groundwater and stormwater, and served in international government and nonprofit environmental stewardship roles.
Learn more:
Intel Water Restoration Progress Report
Intel’s Corporate Social Responsibility Report
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#waterconservation #netpositivewater #semiconductormanufacturing
The views and opinions expressed are those of the guests and author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of Intel Corporation.
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