Glasgow welcomes the water world

(by Karma Loveday)

The opening ceremony for the International Water Association’s World Water Congress took place in Glasgow yesterday, as the city welcomed over 10,000 global water experts and others to four days of discussions.

The Congress theme – Water action: the path to resilience and prosperity – reflects the growing recognition that water is fundamental to economic growth, healthy communities and environmental sustainability. Key areas of focus at the event will be whole-system thinking, cross sector collaboration, and upstream intervention.

Alex Plant, chief executive of Scottish Water and co-president of the Congress, said: “Water underpins public health, thriving communities, environmental resilience and economic prosperity. Yet across the world we face growing pressures from climate change, population growth and increasing demand. This Congress is an opportunity not only to discuss those challenges but to accelerate practical solutions. By bringing together expertise from every continent, we can learn from one another and develop the partnerships needed to deliver lasting change.”

Plant added: “Scotland has a strong story to share, from long-term investment in water infrastructure and innovation to our work on nature-based solutions, digital technology and building resilient services for future generations.”

The Congress runs 4-8 October and features technical sessions, thematic forums, a major exhibition, site visits and more.