As the drive for more efficient, compliant, and sustainable water systems grows, Smarter Technologies Group is leading the way with end-to-end IoT solutions built for the most challenging environments. Our technologies give utilities, facilities managers, and estate teams the real-time visibility and control needed to manage water remotely, safely and efficiently.

At the core of this capability is Orion, The Real-Time Data Network™ – our proprietary, low-frequency, low-power network designed for hard-to-reach assets. Orion provides secure, resilient, wireless connectivity with deep in-building and underground penetration, ensuring continuous data flow from even the most challenging locations. Live data is captured and …

Tackling leakage is one of the fastest and most cost-effective ways for utilities to bolster water security, writes Ben Crabtree, product line director, Ovarro, revealing how the potential of smart technologies is being demonstrated around the world.

Droughts are becoming longer, harsher and more frequent – with impacts that are accelerating. According to the Organisation for Economic Co-operation & Development’s Global Drought Outlook (June 2025), 40% of the world’s land area is now experiencing greater drought stress than in the past, with economic losses projected to rise by 35% over the next decade.

Reducing leakage offers a quick and …

As a project manager at Metasphere, a Grundfos-owned remote telemetry company at the cutting edge of innovation, Fey McHarg, has witnessed firsthand how the intelligent harnessing of data, specifically through the data-as-a-service model, is fundamentally reshaping and revolutionising the water sector.

The demands on the water industry are escalating, with an urgent need to dramatically enhance efficiency, bolster sustainability, and improve resilience. As a project manager at Metasphere, I am incredibly excited to be part of the solution addressing critical issues like bathing water quality and reducing sewage spills.

Project managers bridge the gap between technical solutions and client needs, …

Despite the ban on new lead pipe installations decades ago, millions of UK homes are still connected to water networks through legacy lead service lines. Estimates suggest around three million connections remain to be replaced, a figure that represents both a significant public health concern and a major infrastructure challenge. Replacing lead pipes is not straightforward. Traditional approaches can be slow, costly, and highly disruptive, requiring extensive excavation and reinstatement. Homeowners and communities often bear the brunt of these interventions, which can create friction and slow progress. Innovation, however, offers a way forward. Modern techniques – like our INSUduct, and …

Learn how to make every drop count with WaterAware — an interactive online module that helps you improve water efficiency at home and in the workplace.

WaterAware is just one of over 200 sustainability-focused courses available on the new Rio Learn platform. Rio Learn empowers individuals and organisations to turn sustainability ambitions into real-world results through engaging learning, behavioural change, and impactful employee development.

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HydroDaaS Gold (Data as a Service) – Fornham & Louth Section 82 CWQM

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With Section 82 of the Environment Act 2021 now in active rollout, the UK water sector is entering a pivotal phase. The legislation calls for continuous water quality monitoring upstream and downstream of storm overflows and treatment works, writes Darren Hanson, director environmental solutions, Xylem UK.

By 2030, at least 25 percent of applicable assets must be fitted with continuous monitoring – prioritising high-risk sites like chalk streams, Sites of Special Scientific Interest and bathing waters. All applicable assets must be monitored by 2035.

Progress is well underway at high-priority locations, with companies embracing innovation and collaboration being …

In March 2025, a landmark ruling by the UK High Court reclassified chicken manure as ‘waste’ under national law—ushering in a significant shift in agricultural and environmental compliance. The decision has serious implications for farm operations, particularly those near vulnerable watercourses, and represents a renewed focus on protecting the UK’s water environment from nutrient pollution.

Why the Change Matters

Previously regarded by many as a by-product with agricultural value, chicken manure is now legally recognised as a waste material until transferred to a licensed third party. As a result, its storage, handling, and transport are now regulated under the Waste …

Despite long-standing regulation, it’s estimated that up to 10 million UK homes may still be connected by lead supply pipes. With tighter water quality standards and growing public health awareness, utilities and contractors face mounting pressure to modernise. But while the goal is clear, the route to compliance often isn’t – especially in space-restricted, built-up environments.

Full excavation to the recommended 750mm depth isn’t always achievable due to driveways, shallow plots or the presence of other services. Traditional methods can involve costly reinstatement, prolonged disruption and even restricted access into the home.

A recent installation by a contractor, using Groundbreaker …

Water technology provider Ovarro has opened a new Asia Pacific headquarters and production facility in Selangor, Malaysia.

The purpose-built, three-storey facility in the town of Bandar Rimbayu will serve as the production centre for the company’s Kingfisher remote telemetry units (RTUs) and as a regional hub for technical support, repairs, training, sales, finance and marketing. Housing around 25 staff, the site also includes a new warehouse for components and completed goods.

Ovarro has had a presence in Malaysia for 25 years, and in its current region for the last five. This has facilitated supply of advanced technology to water utilities …