31% of the world’s population are said to be without “water-stress,” meaning a sufficient amount of clean, usable water is present to the public. However, the World Resources Institute projects that “high water-stress” will become more widespread by 2040 due to climate change, flooding, population growth, and other factors.
This current crisis and the looming repercussions call for new processes for water management, water treatment, irrigation systems and energy conservation. In light of COVID-19 and the reduction of on-sight workers, some companies have begun to adopt or at least discuss digital solutions.
In one Use Case, a waste treatment plant used a digital tool to compare valuable data and improve their machine maintenance schedule, preventing future damage.
In November 2021, Southern Nevada began a collaborative project with Xylem, Inc. to implement an “Intelligent Water System Solution” which will “optimize operational processes.” This project is estimated to be finished this year.
The digitization of the water industry is starting to happen. Further possible benefits of digital solutions include:
– Using AI to analyze, predict and prevent burst pipes, leaks in storage tanks, and other structural issues reduces water waste.
– Using AI to monitor and reduce water contaminants can increase waste management efficiency and reduce energy costs.