Professor, University of Exeter, United Kingdom KWR Water Research Institute, Netherlands
Lecture: Hydroinformatics and the Journey to a Digital Water Future
This talk will explore the significant advancements in hydroinformatics over the last 40 years and my personal journey through the digital transformation of the water sector. Digital water technologies, such as artificial intelligence (AI), remote sensing, cloud tools, and digital twins, are now widely available and already providing substantial benefits to water managers. These technologies enable better measurement, sensing, and monitoring of water systems, leading to more efficient and effective water management. However, governance and leadership are also required to create a supportive environment where digital solutions can thrive, ultimately leading to improved water management, enhanced operational efficiency, and better service delivery. Therefore, the potential of digital water technologies to revolutionize the water sector is immense, provided there is appropriate governance, leadership, and a strong focus on human training and involvement to ensure these technologies are valued, accepted, and used effectively.
