Transforming the sector through research & innovation: UKWIR 3rd Annual conference

Published On 13/07/2022

Setting sail on a collaborative future Through initiatives like net-zero carbon, the water sector has set a course towards an environment where transformational innovation and collaboration can thrive.

Significant changes are already taking place, and UKWIR’s 3rd Annual Conference is an opportunity to highlight the progress being made and bring people together as we hasten towards a better integrated and more resilient future. 

Since our last conference in 2021, we have seen many innovative ideas emerge, supported by new forums and funding initiatives, including the Ofwat competitions. This has injected dedicated investment into the projects that will help bring innovation through to widescale adoption.

As we seek to address UKWIR’s Big Questions for the water research agenda in the UK and Ireland, new programmes are being undertaken in the areas that represent the greatest challenges. These include carbon reduction, protecting the health of our rivers and seas, and securing precious water resources.

Spring has also been established as the new centre of water innovation excellence and continues to build support. Industry-wide collaborations in areas such as zero waste and resource recovery, as well as sewer management and reducing discharges to rivers, are proving critical for the long-term sustainability and resilience of the sector.

None of these innovative research initiatives can succeed without a dynamic approach to collaboration across utilities, academia, communities and the supply chain, which is why the chosen theme for this year’s conference is Research and Innovation - Towards Sector Collaboration.

Once again, we have a stellar line-up of speakers and panellists representing not only the utilities, but also the supplier community, regulators and many other organisations and stakeholders.

The extraordinary range of perspectives will provide some fantastic insights, and delegates are also invited to participate in some fascinating topical debates. I look forward to welcoming you as we return to an in-person event, in London on 4th October.

To view more information, please click here.

To register for the event, please click here.