Webinar 1 – The Covid-19 Complex. Water Wastewater and the Pandemic

Webinar 1

Water, Wastewater and the Pandemic
10 June 2020
Presented by Dr David Lloyd Owen, Envisager

About this Webinar

The Covid-19 pandemic has been an unprecedented challenge for water utilities highlighting the need for resilience in utilities when faced with unforeseen change. Developing economies face even greater challenges. Meanwhile, sampling sewage for the virus’s RNA is enabling us to identify where the virus is present 7-10 days before the first symptoms are noticed.

  • Contingency planning has allowed many utilities to maintain their operations as an essential service and to keep capital projects on track.
  • Smart water metering and monitoring are powerful tools for minimising social interactions and allowing staff to work from home.
  • Sewers and sewage treatment plants are sampling points for the early detect ion of SARS-CoV-2 at the city and local level, allowing comprehensive and continual mapping.

About the Speaker

David runs Envisager, advising governments, multilaterals, financiers, NGOs and companies on water policy. He has written three books on water policy, smart water and infrastructure needs. David is a Court Assistant of the Worshipful Company of Water Conservators.