Watervrije

Watervrije is a Dutch term meaning water-free or dry. It is used to describe products, processes, and practices that operate with little or no water. In Dutch-language discourse, watervrije denotes a design or operation principle oriented toward reducing freshwater use, improving drought resilience, or minimizing effluent and waste associated with water.

The term appears across several sectors. In cleaning and maintenance, watervrije methods include dry cleaning and solvent- or CO2-based techniques that avoid wet rinsing. In manufacturing and finishing, dry processes such as powder coating or dry machining reduce the need for water-based washing and curing. In agriculture and landscape management, watervrije approaches emphasize efficient irrigation, soil moisture retention, and rainwater harvesting to limit water consumption. In construction, dry-building techniques and moisture-controlled materials align with watervrije goals.

Watervrije is primarily a descriptive label rather than a formal standard; its precise meaning depends on context and industry. It may appear in sustainability reports, product marketing, or policy discussions. There is no single governing body for the term, and interpretations range from minimal water use to fully waterless operation. The concept continues to evolve as technologies seek to reduce the water intensity of daily activities.