Aquatech and the International Water Association (IWA) are joining forces to launch a new forum to bring scientific water knowledge, research and innovation closer to practical implementation.

At a time when governments, utilities and industries worldwide are investing heavily in water resilience, climate adaptation, PFAS mitigation, circular water systems and digital water technologies, the gap between research, innovation and implementation remains a major challenge. This initiative aims to help bridge that gap.
The new Water Research Forum is organised next to the Aquatech Innovation Forum and Integrated Leaders Forum and it will strengthen the scientific foundation of Aquatech International Water Week 2027, connecting current research with innovation, policy, business and practical solutions for utilities, industries and cities. It will be held on Thursday 11 March 2027 and all delegates have free access to Aquatech Amsterdam.
Scientific leadership for the future of water
IWA will act as lead partner for the Water Research Forum at the 2027 event in Amsterdam, providing scientific and editorial leadership, curating the programme and helping attract international speakers and delegates. Aquatech will provide the event platform, marketing reach and operational delivery.
“An innovation that takes decades to reach practice is an innovation delivered too late,” said Dr Kala Vairavamoorthy, Executive Director of IWA. “Evidence alone does not drive adoption; knowledge spreads through trusted people and networks. IWA can identify and mobilise those networks across disciplines, technologies and geographies - connecting the right expertise with the places where it can accelerate uptake and make the greatest difference.
From research to real-world solutions
The Water Research Forum will focus on Scaling Integrated Solutions for Water Resilience. Under the theme “current research is the basis for future innovations”, the forum will highlight the latest water research efforts, trends and challenges and show how these can steer the next generation of water technology development.
“The future of water resilience will be built on stronger connections between science, technology and implementation,” said Daan Burghouts, Director Aquatech Global Events. “Current research is the basis for future innovations. With IWA as partner, Aquatech International Water Week strengthens the connection between scientific expertise, strategic decision-making, tactical innovation and practical implementation. Together, we are creating a platform where research insights move beyond discussion and become action, helping the global water sector build a more resilient future.”
The partnership around the forum brings together one of the world's leading scientific water networks and one of the world's leading platforms for water technology innovation and implementation, creating a unique bridge between science, policy and the market.
The partnership supports both organisations’ ambition to accelerate the adoption of next-generation water solutions, strengthen global water networks and ensure that scientific breakthroughs reach the professionals responsible for implementation.
Click here for more information about Aquatech Amsterdam March 2027
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