PUBLIC-PRIVATE SECTOR PARTNERSHIPS

AquaVest supports the development of effective public-private sector partnerships by considering the (often conflicting) interests in the development of water master plans.

The need for cross-sectoral collaboration

If we are to meet the (growing) water demands from all sectors while protecting natural water sources from further depletion or degradation, we will have to develop water master plans in a multi-stakeholder context.

Cross-sectoral collaboration on the treatment and transport of effluents as tailor-made water is complex. There are many interests at stake and the challenges are of social, environmental, technical and economic nature.

Public sector

Water authorities are responsible for the overall water balance in the region. They make sure that groundwater extraction and replenishment remains in balance. They provide groundwater and surface water extraction permits to drinking water companies, industry and the agrisector. With increasing droughts the water authorities are more and more challenging the use of groundwater or drinking water for non-consumptive use.

Private sector

The security of water supply is of high importance for private sector water users, since a lack of water can directly impact the bottom-line. There is a growing awareness within the private sector that climate change and increasing environmental consciousness requires them to become more responsible water users. The use of groundwater or drinking water for non-consumptive use is now more and more challenged by water authorities.

Water authorities need a decision support tool that fosters constructive dialogue between the public and private sector on the efficient use and reuse of water streams present in the region. AquaVest strenghtens cross sectoral collaboration in this space by considering the interests of all stakeholders and by providing transparancy in the costs and benefits of the different system solutions and investment strategies.