Thirty-two water utilities will be recognized on Tuesday, Oct. 2 for transformational work in community engagement, watershed stewardship, and recovery of resources such as water, energy, and nutrients.
The Utility of the Future Today recognition celebrates the achievements of water utilities that transform from the traditional wastewater treatment system to a resource recovery center and leader in the overall sustainability and resilience of the communities they serve.
Utility of the Future Today was launched in 2016 by the National Association of Clean Water Agencies (NACWA), the Water Environment Federation (WEF), the Water Research Foundation (WRF) and the WateReuse Association, with input from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).
The Utility of the Future concept is being promoted as water systems around the world are transforming operations through innovation and technology. The 32 utilities recognized this year are recovering resources from wastewater, engaging in their community, forming unique partnerships, and building an internal culture of innovation.
"The Utility of the Future Today honorees exemplify the kind of forward-thinking leadership that strengthens the entire water sector," said WEF Executive Director Eileen O'Neill. "We are thrilled to celebrate and recognize these utilities that not only embrace but expand water sector innovation."
Twenty-six utilities are recognized for the first time this year, while four are honored for a second year but for a new area of performance, and two are recognized for a third year and in a new area of performance.
