Water Sector challenges
Drinking water systems
About two-thirds of tap water in the UK comes from reservoirs, lakes, and rivers. Our research focuses on the management of catchments upstream of drinking water abstraction points, and how different management practices affect water quality. We also work on reducing the contamination within the water network such as through working to reduce lead pipes.
We have demonstrated that an appropriate combination of measures can lead to water quality improvements which reduce the need for costly treatment of issues including colour and dissolved organic carbon. This work helps to support water resilience for people, places and communities.
Wastewater systems
A changing climate and increasing population mean that there is a growing risk of water shortages in the UK and globally. Unless we find new ways to store, treat, transport and recycle water, it may become very difficult to meet the needs of people whilst also protecting habitats and wildlife. As water quality suffers in drier conditions, water treatment costs may increase markedly.
Our research focuses on the widest range of nature-based, behavioural, economic and engineering-based measures to protect natural resources and promote sustainable consumption.
Catchments and ecosystems
Pollution from the sewer network can occur due to leaks, pump failures, pipe blockages (including from fatbergs) and flooding. With the right monitoring and management, risk assessment, operational practices and training, the impact of pollution incidents on catchments and ecosystems can be reduced and their impact minimised. Underpinning this more applied, sector-focussed research is a portfolio of pure research projects which deepen our understanding of the interactions between this pollution and the hydrological cycle, geomorphology, ecology, climate and land use.
This deeper understanding informs our sector-focussed research programmes, and ultimately will lead to more effective interventions by water and land managers, industry and regulators alike.
Infrastructure and leakage
The UKs water system is dependent on a complex infrastructure which needs continual maintenance and development to meet the increasing challenge of rising population and an ageing network. Leakage is a key part of this challenge, some leaks in water pipes are inevitable as pipes can wear out or be damaged by sudden changes in temperature. However, leakage can also be affected by operational strategies (for example pressure management), network characteristics, asset condition and age.
Our research aims to develop processes for modernising our water systems to support their sustainability into the future. Alongside, understanding the factors that influence leakage, supporting early detection and identifying new solutions to minimise water loss, prevent supply disruptions and reduce operating costs.
Environmental resilience
Climate change, resulting in the increased frequency and severity of floods and droughts results in a heightened demand for environmental resilience. Alongside rising populations and emerging pollutants our environment has never been under greater strain.
Our research focuses on developing practical solutions that enhance environmental resilience. This occurs through the integration of environmental monitoring, data analytics, nature-based solutions, and stakeholder engagement. Allowing us to identify effective strategies to protect ecosystems and strengthen adaptation to future challenges. This work supports regulators and industry in delivering sustainable environmental outcomes that benefit people, places and communities for generations to come.
CHALLENGES