Waterwises

Waterwises is a network and movement focused on sustainable water management and the efficient use of freshwater resources. It encompasses guidelines, technologies, and programs intended to reduce water demand, lower energy use in water systems, and increase resilience to drought and climate variability. The initiative operates as a federation of non-governmental organizations, utilities, researchers, and municipal agencies that share data and best practices.

The concept arose in the early 2010s amid recurrent droughts and aging infrastructure. A coordinating body established regional chapters and produced standardized guidance and public education campaigns. By the late 2010s it had expanded to hundreds of programs in multiple countries.

Waterwises promotes efficient fixtures such as low-flow taps and toilets, leak detection networks, and smart metering. It supports rainwater harvesting, greywater reuse where permitted, and drought-tolerant landscaping. It also advocates policy measures such as tiered pricing, retrofits, and drought restrictions, together with public outreach to change behavior.

Impact assessments from pilot programs report reductions in water use and influence on building codes and municipal guidelines. Critics cite upfront costs, maintenance, and concerns about equitable access to retrofits and new technologies.

Governance is provided by an international council with regional chapters coordinating local efforts. Funding comes from government grants, utility partnerships, research programs, and philanthropic or industry support. The network maintains an online knowledge base of case studies and performance metrics.

Related topics include water conservation, urban water management, and rainwater harvesting.