The analytical framework of EcoWater will include:

• Eco-efficiency indicators, denoting resource usage and environmental impact vs. activity levels and value added across the analysed value chains;
• A technology inventory, describing the main features (footprints, costs) of innovations to be tested through the Project Case Studies;
• Tools to support systemic environmental and economic analyses, and
• Conceptualization of technology scenarios, denoting the key drivers that could influence technology implementation and uptake.

The value chains that will be analysed in EcoWater include all stages required to render water suitable for specific use purposes.

These typically concern water abstraction, storage, distribution and use, as well as subsequent wastewater collection, treatment and discharge, according to applicable discharge and technology standards.

Each stage includes different processes, all of which use resources (inputs), have diverse environmental impacts and entail financial costs to different actors. Within a specific sector or activity, water is used to enhance the economic value of services of products (value in use). The difference between this enhancement and the relevant financial costs would represent the economic element of eco-efficiency for the system.