A new partnership has been founded between Boston University’s Institute of Sustainable Energy (ISE) and the Cynthia and George Mitchell Foundation to increase water resiliency in Texas. The partnership has been established to help municipal water agencies throughout Texas transition to an Integrated Urban Water Management (IUWM) model. [1]
IUWM is a theory increasingly gaining favor with water managers. This adaptive approach to urban water and wastewater management focuses on resiliency in an effort to respond to the increasing uncertainty about future conditions created by climate change, aging infrastructure, and population growth. Principles of the model include increasing water use efficiency in urban environments, diversifying water sources, and maximizing the benefits of wastewater through reuse.
In a University press release, ISE’s Director Jacqueline Ashmore stated that the project is a collaborative effort to create a sustainable future for water supplies and sensitive ecosystems throughout Texas. “It is something that is a critical component of the energy landscape,” Ashmore said. “So, we really jumped at the opportunity to work on this challenge.” [1] [2]
ISE’s research will focus on a water utility financial model that will be used to make recommendations and create a pathway for integrating IUWM across the state of Texas. The model will analyze how interconnected water systems are financially and environmentally beneficial over current disconnected ones. [2]
In the same University press release, Dr. Peter Fox-Penner commented on the value that ISE could bring to the state of Texas. “ISE’s work in integrated water utility financial modeling will provide important data and inform recommendations on transitioning to effective integrated urban water management practices.” [1]
As part of the study, ISE has proposed to form a National committee of water experts that will help inform its work and create dialogue with key water stakeholders throughout Texas. At the study’s conclusion, ISE will deliver a report with actionable next steps, and recommendations for legislators on how to influence and ultimately create IUWM across the state. [1]
[1] Boston University. BU and CGMF collaborate on innovative, long-term Texas water management project. Public Release, February 22, 2017. Web. https://www.eurekalert.org/pub_releases/2017-02/bu-bac022217.php [2] Wright, Lila. BU’s Institute for Sustainable Energy joins effort for water sustainability. The Daily Free Press, February 27, 2017. Web. http://dailyfreepress.com/2017/02/27/bus-institute-for-sustainable-energy-joins-effort-for-water-sustainability/
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