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UNSW Water Research Centre
Multidisciplinary water and environmental engineering research for a sustainable future
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Research Centre
Challenge
Communities face increasing risks from water scarcity, pollution and extreme weather events. These challenges pose a threat to public health, infrastructure and ecosystems. WRC addresses these issues by developing solutions for water security, flood and coastal resilience, and sustainable resource management, ensuring reliable water systems in the face of climate variability and population growth.
Solution
WRC integrates advanced modelling, monitoring and treatment technologies to manage water resources sustainably. Its approach combines deep knowledge of environmental systems, numerical and physical modelling, methods to leverage new and innovative water data as well as water and wastewater treatment innovations. Utilities, policymakers and industry adopt these methods. Long-term partnerships with government and industry ensure solutions are embedded in infrastructure planning, regulatory frameworks and operational systems for lasting impact.
Target customers / end-users
• government agencies responsible for water and environmental policies and infrastructure
• water utilities and environmental regulators
• industry partners seeking sustainable water management solutions.
Progress
• developed PFAS degradation catalysts and advancing understanding of‘ forever chemicals’ in water systems
• nature-based solutions for urban flood, water security and green infrastructure planning
• optimised membrane bioreactors for wastewater reuse.
Innovative research translation
UNSW is ranked 9th in the world from Shanghai Rankings for Water Resources
Climate & Clean Energy
The UNSW Water Research Centre( WRC) conducts multidisciplinary research in water and environmental engineering to improve the sustainability of aquatic and atmospheric environments. Through industry and government partnerships, it develops innovative tools and strategies that influence policy and practice, ensuring resilient water systems, infrastructure for communities and the environment worldwide. • 65