AWWA Policy Statement on Research

American Water Works Association (AWWA) supports research for all elements of water, including, but not limited to, public health protection, quality and quantity of source waters, the diversity of resources, treatment technologies, distribution networks, collection systems, water storage facilities, system security, analytical methods, customer service, and utility management. AWWA supports the inclusion of research costs in rates charged for water services.

Support of and participation in research is a necessary investment in the future of high quality water service and the development of new professionals for the water industry. AWWA encourages support for research efforts sponsored by the Water Research Foundation, and other relevant organizations, such as water utilities, service providers, universities, community groups, or governmental organizations.

Promoting and supporting research advances the science of water and enables water utilities to use innovative technologies and management practices that will result in:

• improved methods for protection and maintenance of water resources;
• the development of safe, alternative drinking water sources;
• cost‐effective treatment technologies for providing high‐quality water that meets public expectations and regulatory requirements;
• recovery of resources from water including energy, energy savings, and commodities;
• optimal operational practices for reliable storage and distribution of high‐quality drinking water while meeting all water use needs;
• sensitive and accurate monitoring and detection technologies for various constituents to protect public health;
• effective customer service procedures to promote customer satisfaction and increase consumer education;
• efficient management strategies for capital investment, resource conservation, workforce performance, public relations; and
• responsible environmental stewardship.

AWWA encourages the results of research studies undertaken by water utilities to be publicly available to benefit the global water community.

Practices specified in this policy statement are consistent with all other pertinent AWWA policy statements.

Adopted by the Board of Directors June 24, 2007, and revised Jan 17, 2010. Reaffirmed by the Board of Directors January 20, 2013. Revised June 18, 2016.