Safe water for all: Prof. Daigger’s insights on global water trends and priorities

Prof. Daigger began by outlining the critical state of global water resources, noting that renewable water supplies are now fully allocated—or over-allocated—and that climate change further reduces both their availability and quality.  As populations grow and living standards rise, water demand continues to increase, particularly in agriculture and industry.  Traditional sources are no longer sufficient, necessitating the development of “manufactured” water through technologies such as potable water reuse and desalination.  The economic value of water now exceeds the cost of its delivery, making it essential to identify new revenue streams.  Accelerated adoption of innovative technologies is vital to meet rising demands without harming the environment

He emphasised three main priorities for the water sector: transforming water management to prevent stress, improving resource efficiency, and ensuring universal access to safe water and sanitation.  He advocated a fundamental shift towards integrated management—such as the “One Water” and sponge city concepts—that combine efficiency, storage, local capture and advanced treatment methods.  Integrating built and natural infrastructure can yield multiple benefits, while resource recovery from wastewater offers opportunities to produce water, energy, nutrients and other valuable materials.  Achieving these goals requires collaboration among utilities, private-sector involvement, and the adoption of decentralised, flexible systems tailored to local needs.

Extending the human right to safe water and sanitation to all was highlighted as essential for public health, economic development, and social equity.  Prof. Daigger discussed the importance of affordability, innovative financing, and community engagement in water projects.  He advocated for resilient water systems that integrate rainwater management, green infrastructure, and resource efficiency—aiming for zero waste and continuous environmental restoration.  Success, he noted, depends on aligning water system visions with community goals, fostering collaboration with governments, and selecting solutions that deliver broad benefits. Above all, adaptive management and ongoing learning are crucial for building sustainable, future-proofed water systems.

To encapsulate his key messages, Prof. Daigger referenced three quotes from Mr Yogi BERRA, a famous American professional baseball player, coach, and manager.  First, the call for vision—“You’ve got to be very careful if you don’t know where you are going, because you might not get there”—spoke to the necessity of strategic water planning and management.  Second, “In theory, there’s no difference between theory and practice.  In practice, there is”—highlighted the realities and unforeseeable challenges of putting ideas into action.  Finally, “The game isn’t over until it’s over” underscored the need for perseverance and adaptability in addressing ongoing and future water challenges.

The presentation concluded with a lively question-and-answer session moderated by Prof. LIU Tao, Member of Research Institute for Sustainable Urban Development (RISUD) and Associate Professor of Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, during which both the in-person and online audience engaged in a thoughtful exchange with Prof. Daigger.

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