Tampa, Florida, March 17, 2025 – The International Desalination and Reuse Association (IDRA) is pleased to announce that its partnership campaign with the Be Water Positive sailing campaign, led by Canada Ocean Racing in collaboration and H2O Innovation, has been honored with the 2025 WateReuse Award for Excellence in Outreach and Education by the WateReuse Association.

The Be Water Positive sailing campaign creatively merges the excitement and global reach of ocean racing with critical education on water reuse, desalination, ocean protection, and responsible water management. Using engaging storytelling, sustainable technologies, and live experiences aboard their IMOCA-class racing yacht, the campaign offers tangible solutions and real-world insights into tackling global water challenges.

“This award is a powerful recognition of our commitment to Be Water Positive,” said Scott Shawyer, President and Skipper of Canada Ocean Racing. “For us, this journey is about more than just racing. It’s about inspiring action, showing how every choice we make impacts our global waters, and proving that pushing limits – on the water and in sustainability – can lead to real change. Through our collaborations, water industry partnerships, and engaging storytelling, we’re making water positivity something everyone can participate in.” 

“The concept of becoming Water Positive means proactively working toward replenishing and restoring local water resources beyond what we consume, and we can help do this through scaling water reuse to meet global demand,” said Shannon McCarthy, Secretary General of IDRA. “The IDRA Be Water Positive campaign began in June 2022, and our knowledge partner agreement with the Canada Ocean Racing Be Water Positive Sailing team, signed in 2023 and supported by H2O Innovation, demonstrates the power of creative, human-centered engagement in promoting water reuse and desalination solutions globally to actively contribute to the sustainable management and restoration of water resources for current and future generations.”

Frederic Dugré, President and CEO of H2O Innovation, added, “Supporting Be Water Positive aligns directly with our mission to advance water reuse, sustainable desalination, and ocean protection. This partnership uniquely highlights real-world innovation and inspires collective action towards global water security.” As the sailing team and their campaign continues its global journey, including Europe, North America, Africa, Asia, and culminating in the prestigious Vendée Globe solo circumnavigation, Be Water Positive will further strengthen its advocacy, promoting actionable and sustainable water solutions worldwide.