The image below, shows that how the UKWIR Big Question Programme is progressing.

The following lists some of the most recent developments:

BQ2: Achieving Zero Leakage in a Sustainable Way by 2050

This BQ has progressed the furthest. There are a number of on-going projects including those focused on Plumbing Losses (phase 2), Smart Meters and Repeat Bursts. Two new PhDs have started focused on acoustic sensing techniques to detect leakage, with a further one on Fibre Optics planned.

BQ4: Achieving 100% Compliance with Drinking Water Standards at Point of Use by 2050

This BQ is gathering momentum with several projects commencing this autumn as follows:

• CIP for Drinking Water
• Chemistry of Lead
• Enhancing Natural Processes
• Disinfection by-product project (Post doctorate).

BQ6: Achieving Zero Uncontrolled Discharges from sewers by 2050

Previous work has been reviewed and five project outlines have been developed.

BQ5: Delivering an Environmentally Sustainable Waste Water Service by 2050

A phase 1 project, Research review and Gap Analysis, has been scoped and is currently in the tender process.

BQ7: Zero Customers in Water Poverty by 2030

A Phase 1 project for this BQ has been scoped. It will involve defining water poverty and evaluating existing information and approaches to reduce water poverty.

BQ1: Halve Our Abstractions by 2050

Progress of this BQ is in the form of a Phase 1 project: Research Review and Gap Analysis. It should commence in January 2019.