Throughout the world, government agencies and policy makers are paying greater attention, and dedicating greater resources to issues surrounding the long term sustainability of water suitable for drinking, as well as wastewater treatment. The issues associated with the manner in which water is efficiently distributed to those in the community, as well as the collection, treatment and discharging of wastewater, have serious economical and environmental consequences. The financial impacts associated with the design, construction, maintenance and updating water infrastructure systems are substantial; and those charged with the responsibility of ensuring the efficient supply of such services are turning to leading engineering and construction firms that have the vision to deliver innovative and cost effective water infrastructure solutions.

With the subject of environmental sustainability and stewardship becoming of increasing importance, as well as the focus of much legislation, modern water infrastructure needs to meet the strict environmental regulations pertaining to the delivery and treatment of water supplies. Inferior water infrastructure that is not functioning efficiently can pollute water resources such as streams, rivers and lakes; as well as fragile coastal and aquatic environments which can not only negatively impact upon the levels of neighbourhood safety, but affect local flora and fauna. Underperforming wastewater infrastructure and systems also has a detrimental impact upon the environment, reducing the clarity of local water supplies and recreational areas; as well as natural resources of water supplies that may threaten the local wildlife.

One of the key issues affecting the implementation of efficient water infrastructure systems is the technologies used in their design and construction, which have advanced little over the last several decades. This, in part is due to the organisations and institutions that are responsible for the maintenance and construction of community utilities, favouring traditional and conventional systems and technologies. Additionally, the large amount if monetary resources already invested into current water infrastructural systems has created a restrictive barrier to the implementation of newer and more efficient technologies. For this reason, many utility organisations are turning to experienced engineering companies with a proven track record in delivering results to increase the efficiency and performance of current water infrastructure through the implementation of innovative engineering processes and technologies.

With the dire financial and environmental consequences that can result with the inefficient implementation, operation and maintenance of water infrastructure systems, it is imperative that experienced engineering and construction firms are involved in the entire process; from planning and design to construction, implementation and ongoing maintenance and improvement.