UKWIR Opens Research Opportunities to Tackle Key Water Industry Challenges

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UKWIR Opens Research Opportunities to Tackle Key Water Industry Challenges

UK Water Industry Research (UKWIR) has kicked off a phased program of research opportunities designed to tackle some of the biggest challenges facing the water sector in the UK and Ireland. These challenges include reducing leakage, enhancing wastewater treatment, and boosting climate resilience.

This independent, not-for-profit organization is on the lookout for specialized research partners to help with projects that focus on water infrastructure, network efficiency, drinking water quality, and nature-based solutions.

The initial batch of five research projects dives into important topics such as climate-induced pipe bursts, the capacity of wastewater treatment facilities, orthophosphate dosing in lead-free water systems, water demand driven by emerging technologies, and river restoration efforts linked to wastewater nutrient management.

Mike Rose, Chief Executive of UKWIR, shared, “These research projects are specifically tailored to support the key strategic priorities of the water sector.”

UKWIR is rolling out a staggered research program that will unfold over three phases from now until early 2027. This approach opens the door for academic institutions, technology experts, supply chain partners, and environmental organizations to lend their expertise.

Looking ahead, future research priorities will focus on speeding up leak repair times, benchmarking leakage, enhancing wastewater climate resilience, removing micropollutants, and breaking down organic pesticides.

Additional projects will investigate how data can enhance drinking water production, explore nature-based solutions for asset management, and develop circular economy strategies to create more resilient wastewater systems.

The first round for expressions of interest wrapped up on 19 October 2026, but more opportunities are on the horizon with the upcoming research phases.

Organizations eager to get involved in future projects can check out the upcoming opportunities and sign up for notifications through the UKWIR expressions of interest portal.