South West Water and University of Exeter Launch Landmark £30 Million Research Centre

Photo: Susan Davy (left) and Lisa Roberts at CREWW

South West Water and the University of Exeter, in collaboration with Research England, have officially unveiled the Centre for Resilience in Environment, Water and Waste (CREWW).

This pioneering £30 million Net Zero research facility is dedicated to addressing some of the most pressing global environmental challenges, marking a significant milestone in the partnership between the water industry and academic research.

A Unique Collaboration

CREWW represents an unprecedented partnership, merging the expertise of South West Water’s professionals with the academic prowess of the University of Exeter’s scholars. The centre’s establishment in the South West aims to foster a collaborative environment where innovative solutions to sustainable management of natural resources can be developed. Susan and Lisa Roberts, key figures from South West Water and the University of Exeter respectively, were present at the launch, highlighting the centre’s commitment to making a tangible impact on environmental resilience.

Tackling Environmental Challenges

The challenges posed by climate change, particularly those affecting water resources, are at the forefront of CREWW’s research agenda. From addressing the complexity of water-related impacts of climate change, such as altered rainfall patterns and the prevalence of microplastics, to enhancing the resilience of water systems against floods and droughts, the centre is poised to develop comprehensive solutions that extend beyond regional benefits to make a global difference.

Susan, CEO of South West Water, emphasised the critical importance of collaborative efforts in tackling environmental issues, stating that the amalgamation of academic and professional expertise at CREWW is unparalleled in its potential to address global water challenges.

Photo: Susan Davy (left) and Lisa Roberts cut the ribbon

Innovative Research for a Sustainable Future

The focus of CREWW extends to a variety of environmental concerns, with ongoing projects exploring the analysis and mitigation of microplastics in the water cycle, improving groundwater management to alleviate sewer filtration, and numerous other worldwide water-related challenges.

Professor Lisa Roberts, representing the University of Exeter, underscored the significance of this collaboration, highlighting the mutual benefit of integrating the water industry’s practical insights with academic research. The synergy between these sectors is expected to yield engineering, economic, and behavioural solutions that promise a lasting positive impact on both local communities and global ecosystems.

Advanced Facilities and Future Prospects

Equipped with state-of-the-art facilities, including advanced microbiology labs, CREWW is set to revolutionise the analysis of microplastics in water operations and their environmental impact. These efforts are supported by a substantial investment from South West Water and additional funding from Research England, indicating a strong commitment to sustainable water management and environmental preservation.

For those interested in the groundbreaking research undertaken at CREWW, further information can be found on the University of Exeter’s website. This centre not only exemplifies the power of collaboration in addressing environmental issues but also sets a precedent for future partnerships between the water industry and academic institutions.