Integrated Systems

Historically, "siloed" bureaucracies have driven construction of single-purpose, centralized infrastructures to meet societal needs. To build a sustainable future, however, water management needs to integrate planning and design for all water systems, including drinking water, wastewater, stormwater, and water that provides recreational and other ecosystem services.  In addition, sustainable water management requires integration with other infrastructure systems, including energy, transportation, and building. Future smart "networks" will provide significant synergies of design, cost-savings, and positive benefits for society, such as increased green space, restoration of waterways, improved air quality, and economic development through creation of green jobs.