The future of water management: innovation and digitalization according to Gartner's Hype Cycle?

The development and implementation of systems specifically designed for the complete water cycle based on digitalization play a crucial role today. This is important from the perspectives of public administration, the private sector, and citizens as well.

The primary reason lies in the global context we live in, marked by water scarcity, the impact of climate change, and the great possibilities that current technology based on IoT and AI offers us. Efficient water resource management stands as a paramount challenge for the sustainable development of the agricultural sector, cities, and modern societies.

?

Freshwater availability is a vital resource for life on planet Earth, and its efficient management becomes increasingly critical in a world where water demand far exceeds available supply. Factors such as population growth, rapid urbanization, and climate change have exacerbated water scarcity in many regions, putting water security and food security for millions at risk.

This situation has also highlighted the need to maximize the efficiency of every operation involved in the capture, treatment, and management of water resources, both upstream and downstream.

In this context, the application of innovative technologies and digital solutions emerges as an essential tool to optimize water use and ensure equitable and sustainable access.

Monitoring and sensing

The development of real-time monitoring and sensing technologies allows for the collection of precise data on the quality and quantity of water available from different sources, such as rivers, reservoirs, and aquifers. These systems use a variety of remote sensors and IoT devices to collect real-time data on variables such as water level, temperature, turbidity, and chemical quality. This detailed information provides water resource managers with a complete view of resource status, enabling them to make informed decisions and anticipate potential water crises.

?

Modeling and simulation

Hydrological modeling and simulation are powerful tools for predicting the behavior of water systems in response to different climatic and management scenarios.

Hydrological models use advanced algorithms to simulate the water cycle and the distribution of water resources in a watershed, considering factors like precipitation, evaporation, infiltration, and the flow of surface and groundwater.

?These models allow planners to assess the impact of various management strategies and make decisions that maximize the efficiency and sustainability of water use.

?

?Optimization and Smart Management

The integration of optimization technologies and smart management allows for the automation and improvement of water distribution and treatment processes. Distribution network management systems use optimization algorithms to minimize water loss, detect leaks, and ensure equitable and efficient distribution of the resource.

?

Need to Accelerate Deployment

The analysis we have shown so far in this article is a call to action for the entire water sector value chain. It's true that the implementation of technological solutions is a clear trend identified in recent years.

For example, Gartner has noted in the Hype Cycle? Smart City Technologies & Solutions 2023 various reasons explaining the acceleration of new water management solutions deployment:

?

1.????? Climate change priorities are shifting towards water sustainability.

2.????? Government initiatives and the evolution of water pricing.

3.????? Agricultural fertilization and pollution have raised water prices by 50% in cities in countries like Germany.

4.????? It's an increasingly widespread application area for industrial and commercial uses, including tourist spots like beaches and lakes.

5.????? It offers insights into recovery in case of water-related disasters.

This Gartner analysis, an international consulting firm that has mentioned Adasa as a reference provider in the Hype Cycle since 2014, offers a series of conclusions and recommendations for public administration officials to evaluate technologies, practices, urban principles, and emerging solutions:

1.????? Water management and associated energy consumption are two of the priority innovations in the debate around climate change and smart cities.

2.????? It recommends that public administrations invest in water management tools that control, simulate, and manage the water cycle in all operations.

3.????? It suggests implementing security standards in the water management process, infrastructure, and consumer data privacy policy.

4.????? Water management requires a distinct set of technological competences and services that enable effective management of water quality, quantity, and distribution, including risk assessment.

5.????? Data on water management requires capabilities and solutions related to a complete management cycle that includes operations, billing, user control, demand forecasting, and quality.

6.????? The nexus between energy and water is a significant benefit among the priorities and technological solutions that smart cities need to consider.

7.????? The relationship between the supply and consumption of water and energy in cities, industries, and smart communities is complex. The volatility of energy access and cost continues and will have short-term repercussions on the cost and supply of water, accelerating climate change. For this reason, it is essential to develop solutions for the water sector that are energy sustainable.

8.????? The nexus between energy and water is accelerating changes in the design and implementation of processes in different sectors and is questioning the sustainability of some business and operational models.

However, the adoption of solutions faces various obstacles such as equity, because often poor and vulnerable communities are the first affected by the availability and quality of water.

From Adasa, we design and deploy digital tools specifically conceived for public administration and private companies that allow monitoring, analyzing, and optimizing the use of water with the aim of making its management more efficient.

For example, with the implementation in the water distribution network of disruptive solutions such as artificial intelligence, we detect and size leaks. In this way, we contribute our bit to mitigating the adverse effects of drought and climate change.

?

Conclusion

The application of technologies and digital solutions offers a diverse set of tools to improve the efficient management of water and water resources in a context of scarcity and climate change. From monitoring and sensing to optimization and citizen participation, these innovations allow public administration, private companies, and citizens to work together to ensure equitable and sustainable access to water for present and future generations.

However, it is crucial to recognize that technology alone cannot solve water challenges; a comprehensive approach is required that combines technological innovation with solid public policies, investment in water infrastructure, and a culture of conservation and responsible water use.

Ultimately, maximizing the efficient management of water requires a joint commitment from all stakeholders, with the goal of building a more resilient and sustainable future for our planet and its inhabitants.