I asked Len Rodman, our Chairman, President and CEO, to share some final thoughts about SIWW. He provided these insights:

Certainly, many positives and advancements were obvious from SIWW in 2009. While the realities of the economy were apparent in the dialogue, I found that there was considerable resolve by those in leadership to find ways to deal with long term water issues even with the current financial situation by doing it with less. The need for sustainable solutions was the sentiment of the day. I was extremely pleased to see that the nexus of water and energy has moved beyond the concept stage with both research and practical applications being implemented. B&V professionals contributed in very meaningful ways to this advancement! The reality of the nexus will truly help with better and more sustainable solutions.

Following the SIWW I spent a couple days as part of PUB’s Industrial Advisory Panel. PUB, as you would expect, has taken a water leadership role by investing in real world technology solutions in some far ranging R&D. The panel includes water research experts, university professors, and industry representatives; I was honored to be included. It will be fun to see this research turn to reality. The IAP approach is typical of the progressive business nature I’ve seen for years in Singapore.

I provide these comments as I fly home with enthusiasm that the water industry is moving in the right direction and I look forward to returning SIWW in 2010.

Posted by Constance Ward