Water infrastructure has the potential to generate far-reaching benefits for communities, economies and ecosystems. By evaluating the value — not just the cost — of water projects, stewards can justify investments more holistically and gain broader approval.
The Problem With Least-Cost Solutions
Historically, water stewards have focused on delivering safe, abundant drinking water, managing wastewater and mitigating flood risks through least-cost infrastructure solutions. These goals remain essential, but they no longer tell the full story.
Today’s water leaders face a complex landscape. Economic transitions, demographic shifts, climate uncertainty and technological disruption are converging with aging infrastructure and evolving regulations. These pressures go beyond budget constraints and capital priorities, and raise deeper questions about purpose and impact.
Rethinking Investment: From Cost to Value
The challenge is no longer just about spending wisely; it's about investing wisely. How can infrastructure serve broader community needs? How do we build public and stakeholder support for these decisions? The answers lie in shifting the focus from cost alone to the value that water investments deliver.
Our Value of Water Approach
- Identify projects that create ripple effects across communities.
- Advance broader economic, societal and environmental goals.
- Empower decision-makers to choose legacy projects over least-cost alternatives.
We work with water stewards to define and communicate the true value of water infrastructure investments.
