Boosting innovation in the water sector--the role and lessons learned from collaborative projects

Area of Science:

• Water resource management
• Innovation adoption
• Research and Development (R&D)

Background:

• The water sector is often conservative and resistant to change, hindering innovation adoption.
• The European Union's Horizon 2020 programme emphasizes increasing innovation across sectors from 2014 to 2020.
• Effective adoption of innovation is a key global challenge, particularly in established industries.

Purpose of the Study:

• To discuss the role of collaborative knowledge-transfer projects in R&D rollout within the water industry.
• To present a structured model for innovation adoption developed by LNEC (Laboratório Nacional de Engenharia Civil).
• To analyze the advantages of targeting middle management for innovation implementation.

Main Methods:

• Development of a structured model based on a phased program and a network of utilities and researchers.
• Presentation of core principles, rationale, model, methods, and theoretical background.
• Analysis of project impact, outcomes, products, and lessons learned.

Main Results:

• A structured model for collaborative knowledge transfer in the water sector was designed and implemented.
• Focusing on middle management proved an effective entry point for innovation adoption.
• Publicly sharing project outputs (training materials, guidelines, data, software) created a multiplying effect.

Conclusions:

• Collaborative knowledge-transfer projects are vital for effective R&D rollout in the water industry.
• The developed model demonstrates a sustainable approach to R&D, with ongoing developments planned.
• Making project resources publicly available enhances the long-term impact and sustainability of innovation.