World Water Week: Empowering utilities to prioritise leakage reduction for global water security

Global water scarcity is a large concern, exacerbated by climate change and inefficiencies within the water supply system. In the UK alone, around 20% of the water running through UK pipes is lost due to leakage (Ofwat, 2022). Water availability is complicated by increased frequency of extreme weather events, such as prolonged droughts and heavy flooding, which also lead to the contamination of existing water sources. As a result, climate change forces populations to divert water for other uses, such as irrigation, further reducing the water available for other purposes.

Water scarcity impacts not only individuals but society as a whole. Water is crucial for various aspects of human life and economic activity, including crop production and power generation which could be disrupted due to their substantial water requirements. This could lead to increased food and energy prices, especially as the population grows, placing further strain on already limited water supplies.

Water utilities in the UK face significant challenges in preserving water resources and meeting customer demands. In response, Ofwat has set a target for water companies in England and Wales to reduce leakage by 50% by 2050, using the 2017-2018 period as a baseline. Failure to meet these targets could result in substantial financial penalties. How can the sector expand capability and rise to meet these targets considering forces such as climate change, ageing infrastructure, and a society lacking in appreciation for the value of water?

Reducing leakage requires efficient network management and planning. The volume of water lost is influenced by factors such as system pressure and the speed at which leaks are identified and repaired. Even small leaks, if left unchecked, can result in significant water loss. These leaks are often found in joints, fittings, service pipes, and connections. Due to the extensive and sometimes remote nature of water distribution networks, detecting and repairing leaks can be challenging.

Addressing this challenge requires solutions that will stand the test of time, and that are built on solid scientific and engineering knowledge and know-how. Part of the solution is to build greater expertise and sustainable capability within these sectors through training and knowledge sharing. It is essential to empower water network practitioners with a critical understanding of asset quality, leakage detection and water loss management, for effective pipeline repair and rehabilitation. Our team of technical experts at WRc offer training courses that do just that – upskilling field operatives, leakage analysts; engineers, supervisors and consultants with the confidence to utilise best-practices and techniques, ultimately improving the efficiency of water supply management processes.

Reducing leakage not only eases environmental stress by decreasing the volume of water abstracted but also enhances the capacity of water utilities to meet customer demands, thereby increasing water security – another key theme of World Water Week. Water security refers to the availability of an adequate quantity and quality of water for health, livelihoods, ecosystems, and production, alongside acceptable levels of water-related risks. This differs from water scarcity, which focuses solely on the physical availability of water. A region with low water availability can still achieve high water security through effective management, accessibility, and high safety standards. WRc’s water quality specialists also provide a range of opportunities to upskill professionals in areas such as: environmental water quality; management of schemes for reclaimed water; potable water treatment processes; water quality in the drinking water supply network; and Water Safety Planning in line with WHO standards.

In light of the challenges faced by water utilities worldwide, it is critical to work together to adopt long-term, scientifically grounded solutions. Training and knowledge sharing play a vital role in empowering professionals to manage assets effectively and reduce water loss. By prioritising leakage reduction and improving water quality practices, the sector can achieve greater water security and ensure the sustainable availability of this essential resource for future generations.