The U.S. Chamber of Commerce and the National Association of Water Companies (NAWC) have launched the “Water is Your Business” series to educate public leaders, businesses, and citizens on the importance of water infrastructure to public and environmental health and the economic vitality of communities. The kickoff event in Miami, Fla., drew more than 50 business leaders to examine drinking and wastewater infrastructure needs in the context of regional water management issues.
South Florida water experts discussed the need for adequate water supplies for economic development and population growth, innovative alternatives to groundwater withdrawal, and the beneficial reuse of wastewater. Elected officials, including Lieutenant Governor Jeff Kottkamp and Hialeah Mayor Julio Robaina, joined business leaders in presenting specific examples of how innovative and sustainable water infrastructure practices can improve economic competitiveness for businesses and quality of life in local communities.
“Sustainable, safe and reliable water service is the lifeblood of every community,” noted NAWC executive director Michael Deane. “The education of business leaders is the right first step on the road to sparking a national dialogue. As business owners, this group already recognizes how sufficient investment, innovative management practices and transparent governance can affect the quality of performance. Our program will further show the great value sustainable water systems can have on their businesses and lives, so they can start to work with their local officials and colleagues to make sure their water utilities are run well and prepared for the future.”
Similar programs will be held in other cities across the country. The "Water is Your Business" series is designed to raise awareness of the significant economic and ecological impacts of water provision, use and disposal on communities everywhere. Each local dialogue will focus on giving business and community leaders tools and resources they need to be constructive and influential participants in the discussion on water infrastructure. The series is co-hosted by local area Chambers of Commerce.
“The Chamber recognizes that water infrastructure is a critical part of the physical platform of the United States economy,” said Janet Kavinoky, U.S. Chamber director of transportation and infrastructure. “Unfortunately, it is out of sight, out of mind, until a pipe breaks or supplies run low. We want to raise awareness of the needs and potential solutions, in particular, the role of the private sector in delivering sustainable water systems.”
The National Association of Water Companies (NAWC) represents all aspects of the private water service industry. Members include owners of regulated drinking water and wastewater utilities, and the many forms of public-private partnerships and management contract arrangements. The U.S. Chamber of Commerce is the world’s largest business federation representing the interests of more than three million businesses. Through its "Let's Rebuild America" initiative, the Chamber advocates for the need to maintain, modernize, and expand the nation's infrastructure.
