Water is one of our most vital resources, yet managing it comes with significant challenges — from contamination risks to sustainability efforts. Researchers at the University of Michigan are tackling these issues head-on, developing cutting-edge solutions to ensure safe and resilient water systems.
In an in-depth series, The Michigan Daily examines the risks, innovations and future of water in Michigan and beyond. Click here to dive into this collection of stories that explore the key initiatives shaping today's water conversation.
Austin Water to Invest $1Billion in WWTP Expansion
Austin Water is investing $1 billion to modernize and expand its Walnut Creek Wastewater Treatment Plant in East Austin. The project aims to upgrade every aspect of the treatment process, addressing aging infrastructure and increasing capacity.
Key improvements include new screening machines to remove debris, a transition from chlorine to UV disinfection, and an expansion to increase treatment capacity by 25 mgd. The modernization will also enhance nutrient removal to reduce algae growth in the Colorado River and include flood protection measures. Read more about it from CBS Austin.
The Water Council Expands Water Stewardship Programming
The Water Council recently announced an expansion of its groundbreaking water stewardship verification program, WAVE. WAVE: Action will help organizations set targets that directly mitigate the highest-priority water risks and prepare to engage stakeholders in collaborative actions that address shared challenges and opportunities.
It builds on the original WAVE program, now known as WAVE: Assess, which helps organizations assess water use, impact and risk across their enterprise.
“We created WAVE because we knew companies needed help getting started on their water stewardship journeys,” says Matt Howard, The Water Council vice president of water stewardship. “Now we are excited to help companies take the next step to set targets and achieve meaningful water-related outcomes.”
WAVE: Action is being launched with A. O. Smith Corporation, a leading manufacturer of residential and commercial water heaters, boilers and water treatment solutions, as its first participant. A. O. Smith pilot-tested WAVE: Assess and became one of the first companies to be verified to the program in 2022. Learn more here.
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