Why water matters: The key areas shaping the UK’s water industry today

The state of the UK water industry 

Water is the foundation of life. It sustains communities, powers industries, and supports ecosystems—but across the world, this critical resource is under increasing pressure. 

Climate change, population growth, and urban expansion are intensifying the challenges of water scarcity, flooding, and infrastructure resilience. 

Meeting these challenges isn’t just about engineering solutions; it’s about securing the future of society, the environment, and the economy. 

How AtkinsRéalis is shaping the future of water 

At AtkinsRéalis, we’re leading the way in transforming how the world manages water. Our experts are at the forefront of delivering cutting-edge solutions that enhance water resilience, protect natural ecosystems, and ensure sustainable access for generations to come.

Through major projects and strategic partnerships, we’re shaping a smarter, more sustainable water future. By engineering net-zero solutions, we are not only addressing the pressing challenges of today but also paving the way for a sustainable and resilient future for the UK water industry and beyond. 

CIWEM and the UK water industry 

The Chartered Institution of Water and Environmental Management (CIWEM) is a leading independent professional body dedicated to championing sustainable water and environmental management.

The CIWEM has outlined eight key areas of focus which we are actively addressing through our projects and partnerships. Learn more about these areas of focus and our work: 

Built Environment 

As cities expand and infrastructure ages, climate change is increasing pressure on urban spaces. We are advancing sustainable design in the built environment by integrating AI-driven planning, smart infrastructure monitoring, and low-carbon transport solutions to create resilient, net-zero cities.

Energy and Climate Change 

The transition to clean energy is critical to reducing emissions and ensuring energy security. We are leading the development of offshore wind farms, next-generation nuclear power, and hydrogen infrastructure to accelerate the global shift to low-carbon energy. 

Natural Environment 

Biodiversity loss and ecosystem degradation threaten both nature and human well-being. We are driving nature-based solutions, such as floodplain restoration and rewilding, to enhance ecosystem resilience and support sustainable infrastructure development.

Management and Regulation 

Evolving environmental regulations and sustainability targets require strategic planning and compliance. We provide digital environmental monitoring, impact assessments, and regulatory advisory services to help businesses and governments meet and exceed sustainability goals.

Flooding 

Increasing flood events due to climate change pose a major risk to communities and infrastructure. We deliver adaptive flood defence systems, sustainable urban drainage, and digital flood modelling to enhance climate resilience and mitigate risk.

Water Resources 

Water scarcity and quality challenges are intensifying due to climate change and population growth. We are optimizing water supply and distribution through smart water networks, leakage reduction strategies, and sustainable water resource management.

Waste and Resources 

The shift to a circular economy is essential to reducing waste and conserving natural resources. We are implementing material reuse strategies in infrastructure projects and designing sustainable waste management systems to drive resource efficiency. 

Processed Water 

Ensuring safe and sustainable wastewater treatment is crucial for public health and environmental protection. We are advancing industrial water solutions, wastewater recycling, and energy-efficient treatment technologies to improve water quality and regulatory compliance.

Shaping the future of the UK water industry with sustainable solutions

We collaborate with governments, utilities, and industry leaders to drive innovation—whether it’s improving flood defences, advancing wastewater treatment, or integrating nature-based solutions that work in harmony with the environment.

The future of water demands bold thinking and decisive action. At AtkinsRéalis, we’re not just engineering solutions; we’re reimagining what’s possible. Together, we can build a water-secure world.

Join us in shaping the future of the UK’s water industry.