Insights into managing water data.
BY ERIK LARSON
We are three years into the United Nations Water Action Decade 2018-2028 and the water industry has already come a long way in transforming how we manage water, but the journey is far from over. Governments and water organisations recognise that they need a firm understanding of every part of the water ecosystem and water management lifecycle to affect real change. To do this, they are investing in all aspects of data, from collection to management, data quality to analytics, and transparency to accessibility. Data is being shared both internally and externally, with the public, and with global scientists.
Technological advancements have created an explosion in data; however, government agencies and water organisations are in various stages of maturity in collecting and analysing information from a variety of applications including:
- Source water: Using data from hydrological systems, organisations can properly account for and appropriately allocate water resources while minimising the impact on the environment.
- Drinking water: By bringing together data from all treatment facilities, lab testing results and compliance regulations, organisations can ensure safe drinking water for everyone.
- Stormwater: Using data collected from reservoir levels, stream-flows and rainfall, environmental organisations can take preventative action against flood dangers.
- Wastewater: Managing a highly regulated resource such as wastewater effectively requires accurate data, advanced record computation and sophisticated analysis.
- Fats, oil and grease (FOG): Keeping track of activities and evaluating FOG programme compliance can provide data to help reduce risks and work with the community to remain proactive and mitigate violations.
- Backflow prevention: A centralised view of all testable backflow assemblies can provide cities with the visibility they need to ensure the continued preservation of water quality and protection of property.
- Pre-treatment: Industrial pre-treatment compliance can be better managed with the right data analysis and governance in place.
Erik Larson is digital solution expert at Aquatic Informatics.
The full article is available on the latest edition of Water & Wastewater Asia Mar/Apr 2022 issue. To continue reading, click here.
