Sustainable water for all
Summary of contents
This policy position, developed in collaboration with our community and representatives from across the water sector, outlines the actions that are needed to achieve clean and plentiful water for all. The document highlights the urgent need for public engagement, robust regulation, and investment in research and innovation to address water scarcity, pollution, and infrastructure challenges. It stresses the importance of sustainability-focused education, citizen involvement, and the adoption of best practices in chemical management to safeguard water quality and availability.
The paper underscores the growing pressures on water systems due to population growth, climate change, and industrial practices, noting that many regions鈥攊ncluding parts of England鈥攆ace unsustainable water abstraction and looming shortages. It calls for a shift from linear water use models to more resilient, leak-free systems supported by effective town planning and land use policies. The document also raises concerns about contaminants of emerging concern, such as endocrine-disrupting chemicals and PFAS, which are persistent and difficult to remove. To address these issues, the RSC advocates for a 鈥榪uadruple helix鈥� approach鈥攃ollaboration among academia, industry, government, and civil society鈥攁nd urges the UK and other developed nations to lead by example in global water governance and innovation.