This year’s world Water Summit and expo sets out to question our assumptions about where the world is moving. How long can banks lend money at negative interest rates? What happens as we approach the peak of global population? How would we do things differently if energy costs were forever low? What if the circular economy and nature-based solutions become orthodox? How does the end of Moore’s law change the model for growth?

Water is entering the new decade with everything to play for. Public awareness of the challenges ahead is greater than ever before. Climate change is bringing exciting new responsibilities. Technology is promising real productivity gains. Investment is buoyant. But making the most of this future is not going to be easy. So much in the world is changing.

The growth of every organisation in the water sector depends on understanding where our assumptions are wrong. However it is not just about asking big questions. It is also about connecting the big picture with what is happening on the ground, and tracing out the implications for strategy and tactics. More importantly it is also about connecting with the other key decision makers from across the global water industry, sharing their insights and inspiration.