Part 10/12:
In Taiwan, TSMC has established multiple water reclamation plants, treating industrial and domestic wastewater to supply their fabs. Notably, they have developed innovative filtration methods to remove contaminants, making reclaimed water viable for high-tech manufacturing.
The Path Forward: Technology and Policy
While the magnitude of water use in semiconductor manufacturing is undeniable, technological innovations, infrastructure investments, and strategic water management practices offer pathways toward sustainability. TSMC’s efforts to reuse water, coupled with California-style recycling plants and policies promoting conservation, demonstrate a proactive approach.