From idea to action: taking AWWA’s Water 2050 initiative forward

Insights from five Water 2050 think tanks led by the American Water Works Association (AWWA) over the past year will help guide the next steps toward assuring the water sector’s success and sustainability.

Through the think tanks, AWWA brought together a diverse group of experts from the water sector and related organizations to explore challenges and opportunities related to five drivers: sustainability, technology, economics, governance and social/demographics. Participants recommended a combined 47 actions for the water community.

Their responses, as well as input from a broader collaboration with AWWA’s Board of Directors, Young Professionals, Sections, volunteer councils and committees, have been distilled in a new Think Tanks Summary and Path Forward report, available now. 

The report includes eight broad themes that capture all think tanks’ recommended actions. They are a starting point from which more detailed action plans will be developed through future events and discussions, scientific research, published works, policy development, partnerships and other contributions to the Water 2050 initiative.

The Water 2050 themes are: create a One Water ecosystem; climate resilience; financial stability; equity, affordability and access; optimize efficiency to create a circular economy; advance innovation; community engagement and empowerment; and collaboration and partnership. 

To transition the Water 2050 initiative from idea to action, a Water 2050 Leadership Team comprised of presidential officers and Water 2050 Advisory Board members will refine these themes into Strategic Focus Areas. Then, an implementation team will be established for each area to develop action plans. Ultimately, these will form the foundation of a Water 2050 Action Plan that will span three decades and inform water community strategies for the foreseeable future.

To learn more or engage in AWWA’s Water 2050 initiative, visit the Water 2050 webpage.