Research Matters

Abstract

One of the pillars of the water industry is continuous improvement. Where improvements can be made, efficiencies realized, and/or public health strengthened—those are the evolutions that water professionals are identifying and addressing as a part of their daily routines. When that knowledge is shared, there can be wide-ranging benefits for everyone.

In addition to experience-based improvements, specific larger-scale research efforts are dedicated to exploring the diverse challenges facing modern water systems. Applied and fundamental studies increase our understanding and control of elemental processes. Excellent research leads to high-quality, efficient design and operation, and it increases water system sustainability in the face of changing conditions. Simply put, dedicated research solves problems big and small, and it helps water systems protect and improve critical services.

Drinking water challenges currently under research address per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, lithium, disinfection and its byproducts, fluoride, and system resilience to extreme conditions. Stretched by increasing demands and climate change, multidisciplinary research priorities concerning water resources include drought response, disaster preparedness, and managing toxic algal blooms. And it's not just technical topics—many research studies are aimed at improving customer service and addressing their financial challenges by developing improved response and assistance programs as well as more equitable rate and fee structures.

Research provides key data and analysis that show decision makers and the general public the water industry's top concerns and how they can best be addressed. Communication is top of mind these days, so it's paramount that customers understand the quality of their water and what it takes to produce and deliver it. Confirming new, peer-reviewed science and international technological advancements supports local policies and practices that safeguard public health and protect water infrastructure and the environment.

AWWA understands that the need for sound science in decision-making continues to grow, and because it's important to vet and communicate new research, the association created AWWA Water Science in 2019 as a place for water professionals to publish excellent research related to drinking water systems and services. Along with Opflow and Journal AWWA, AWWA Water Science rounds out the avenues for publishing in the water industry. So whether it's operational guidance in Opflow, a feature article for Journal AWWA, or peer-reviewed research for AWWA Water Science, contact me at [email protected] and I can help you find the audience of water professionals you’re looking for.