With new research suggesting that Britain’s major towns and cities are at risk of increased flooding, stormwater management is becoming more important than ever before. As Richard Dawson, Professor of Earth Systems Engineering at Newcastle University, states in his research released recently, there is an “urgent need to design and adapt our cities to cope with these future conditions.” Wavin will be bringing this debate to ecobuild (ExCeL London, 6 – 8 March 2018), and calling for more holistic drainage solutions that protect UK infrastructure now and in the future.
The conversation is part of the Future of Drainage campaign, set up to raise awareness of the threat of urban flooding and prompt action. It has been created by Wavin in conjunction with ecobuild and the Institution of Civil Engineers (ICE), to encourage involvement and action from every sector of the built environment, and beyond.
To continue the conversation, Wavin and ICE will be hosting a panel discussion at ecobuild titled “Policy vs Pragmatism”, chaired by leading infrastructure journalist Anthony Oliver. Panellists will discuss issues surrounding implementation of policy for sustainable drainage systems, while also considering whether practical application can drive policy implementation forward.
Martin Lambley, Product Manager for Foul, Water and Utilities Management at Wavin, explained: “As one of Europe’s leading manufacturers of below ground drainage solutions, Wavin is connected in every sense to the critical issues surrounding flood events.
“We don’t have all the answers yet to the question, ‘What is the future of drainage?’. That’s why we have joined forces with the Institution of Civil Engineers and ecobuild to stimulate debate and create a platform where we can encourage ideas and begin to find solutions to one of the engineering challenges of the age.
Wavin will have two stands at ecobuild, one showcasing the brand’s latest products and sustainable urban drainage solutions (SuDS) at stand E141, the other raising awareness of the Future of Drainage campaign at stand F142.
As well as asking the question: “What does the Future of Drainage look like?”, the Future of Drainage stand will also feature an interactive flood tank designed by engineers, so visitors can conceptualise how cities including London may look after a significant flooding event.
Visitors to stand F142 will have the chance to pick up some great giveaways such as waterproof phone pouches. Those who choose to join the Future of Drainage debate will also have the chance to win an iPad Pro. Simultaneously, visitors can help Wavin raise money in support of WaterAid, a charity that transforms millions of lives every year by improving access to clean water, toilets and hygiene. A donation gives you the chance to win an Amazon Dot or Echo.
To find out more and share your thoughts on the Future of Drainage, visit: www.futureofdrainage.co.uk or visit stand F142.
