Today, increasing water demand and even more uncertain weather has resulted in ever-increasing water-stressed areas around the globe. Forecasts are that supply will outstrip demand by 40% by 2030.

Thus, it is critical to accelerate adoption of innovative technologies that elevate efficiency and performance across the entire water cycle.

This applies not just to addressing water scarcity, but also the growing challenges associated with contaminants of emerging concern such as per- and polyfl uoroalkyl substances (PFAS) – known to be present in water sources.

Accelerating adoption of innovative technologies is critical to meeting future water demands around the globe.

In this environment, it is imperative that water be viewed as a single element, with every aspect of the water cycle deemed equally important.

This Paradigm is known as One Water.

Desalination and wastewater reuse have long been viable sources of water supply (even if as a source of last resort).

The emergence of modern technologies over the last 50 years (with considerable advancements over the last several decades) have increased their presence in the water supply portfolios of many agencies and business interests as economic (and appropriate) means of addressing water scarcity.

“One Water,” places equal importance on all potential sources of water supply, such as rainfall, groundwater, surface waters, stormwater, desalinated water (both seawater and brackish water), and wastewater from municipalities, agriculture, and industry.

Despite these advances in technology, there remains some public concern over risks that a desalinated or reuse source might contain trace levels of a contaminant following treatment (even if well below a regulated quality standard).

However, technologies have been commercially available to produce desalinated and reuse water at-scale that meet drinking water standards for some years now. These concerns, however valid, can hinder accelerated adoption of new innovations designed to alleviate those very concerns.

Technology itself is not the issue. But leveraging technology in conjunction with best management practices (BMPs), is the pathway to convincing the public that every drop of water they consume is safe each day and every day.

A critical BMP is creating an informed public, which is part of the mission of the IDRA.

The International Desalination and Reuse Association (IDRA) has been operating for over 50 years – connecting people to clean water solutions to address the ever-growing demand.

Since its inception in 1973 as a USA non-profit organization, IDTA has been dedicated to increasing the world’s water resources through innovative desalination and water reuse solutions for reliable and affordable water resources.

Our commitment as an UN-ECOSOC recognized NGO is to share knowledge of technical solutions to address the ever-growing demand for clean water for all.

With a network of experts from public and private sectors in over 60 countries; IDRA acts as a connector and convener for the global desalination and water reuse solutions, bringing together people, ideas, and knowledge to advance sustainable water resources.

https://idrawater.org/memberships-benefits/

IDRA plays a pivotal role in addressing global water scarcity, here’s how:

1. Technology Promotion: IDRA promotes the adoption of innovative desalination and water reuse solutions that enable regions facing water shortages to access fresh, potable water from unconventional sources like seawater and brackish water.

2. Global Knowledge Sharing: Through convening the IDRA Biennial World Congress, and Biennial Water and Climate Change Summit, along with various workshops, webinars, and specialty conferences, and publications, IDRA fosters collaboration among industry leaders, policymakers, researchers, and public and private sectors. These forums allow experts to share best practices, cutting-edge research, and real-world applications of water technologies.

3. Strategic Partnerships: IDRA works with multilateral organizations, including the UN and World Bank, to share knowledge to help shape policies that promote sustainable water practices globally. By advising governments and regulators on the benefits and innovation of water reuse and desalination, and renewable energy IDRA advocates for policies that help mitigate the impact of climate change and water scarcity.

4. Public Awareness and Education: IDRA plays a role in raising awareness about the critical role of desalination and water reuse in combating water shortages. It highlights how these technologies can be viable and sustainable solutions for municipalities, industries, and agriculture.

5. Capacity Building: The association offers technical training and educational programs that build local capacity, especially in regions where water scarcity is acute, helping to ensure the successful implementation and maintenance of water projects.

Yes, the IDRA offers training and educational resources to the water treatment industry through its Desalination Academy. The Academy’s curriculum covers a range of topics related to advanced water treatment, including desalination technology, plant operations, and economics. The Academy offers courses for mid to senior level management, as well as an introductory course for people with little to no industry experience.

The IDRA governance framework is structured to ensure that it operates effectively as a non-profit organization, driven by its mission to promote sustainable water solutions. Here’s an overview of IDRA’s governance framework:

1. Board of Directors:

Role: The Board of Directors is the primary decision-making body of IDRA, responsible for overseeing the organization’s strategic direction, financial health, and policies. The board ensures that IDRA’s activities align with its mission to address water scarcity through desalination and water reuse.

Composition: The Board is composed of 21 elected representatives from IDRA’s membership, balanced by regional membership, which includes individuals from diverse sectors such as industry, government, and academia. Board members are typically elected for a two-year term which rotates at the biennial World Congress.

Committees: Within the Board, various standing committees exist, and special committees may be formed to focus on specific areas like finance, membership, technical programs, industrial water reuse, water for food, water stewardship, legal and regulations, and strategic planning. This allows for more detailed oversight and opportunity to create value to membership.

2. Executive Leadership:

Secretary General: The Secretary General is the chief executive officer of IDRA , and IDRA Board Officer, and is responsible for the programming and day-to-day operations of the association. This role includes managing staff, executing the board’s strategic plan, ensuring financial management, and serving as the primary spokesperson for the organization.

President and Vice Presidents: IDRA also has a President and two Vice Presidents, elected from within the Board of Directors, who represent the organization in various capacities and provide leadership during their term.

3. Membership:

IDRA’s members play a key role in governance through the election of the Board of Directors and participation in IDRA meetings. The membership is global and consists of professionals from the desalination, water reuse, and energy sectors, including engineers, scientists, policy makers, and corporate representatives.

Voting Members: Class I and II members of IDRA have voting rights, allowing them to elect the Board and vote on key issues affecting the association.

4. Bylaws and Constitution:

IDRA is governed by a set of bylaws and a constitution, which outline the organization’s operational rules, election procedures, roles and responsibilities of the board and executive team, and the rights of members. These documents ensure transparency, accountability, and the smooth functioning of the organization.

5. Committees and Advisory Groups:

Technical Committees: These groups provide expertise on specific issues related to desalination, water reuse, energy and related technologies. They also help develop technical programs for IDRA’s events, such as the World Congress and Water and Climate Change Summit.

Advisory Groups: IDRA may also rely on advisory groups or panels consisting of industry experts to guide decisions on emerging technologies, policy advocacy, and global partnerships.

Subject Matter Experts: IDRA engages with subject matter experts from diverse fields, including water technology, sustainability, and policy, to ensure that its programs and initiatives are informed by the latest research and best practices.

Young Leaders Program: IDRA fosters the next generation of water industry leaders through its Young Leaders Program, which provides mentoring, professional development opportunities, and networking for early-career professionals. This initiative is vital for cultivating future experts and decision-makers in the field of desalination and water reuse.

6. Partnerships and Affiliations:

As part of its governance and strategic leadership, IDRA engages with various multilateral organizations, associations, NGOs, governments, and industry groups. This enhances its role as a global advocate for sustainable water practices and ensures it remains at the forefront of policy development and industry standards.