United Utilities recognised for outstanding achievement in climate smart recognition programme

United Utilities was one of only seven companies worldwide to achieve an outstanding ranking in the International Water Association’s (IWA) Climate Smart Utilities programme.

The prestigious programme celebrates ambitious and innovative utilities from around the globe that are leading the way in adapting to the challenges created by climate change and delivering low-carbon water and wastewater services.

It also provides a platform to share knowledge and encourage other utilities across the world to take action. Of the 20 companies recognised in the achiever category, United Utilities was one of only four classified as outstanding alongside organisations from Singapore, Italy and China.

Three other companies from the Philippines, Brazil and Kenya also achieved outstanding status in the emerging category. Winners were selected by a jury of international panel members

The award recognises the progress United Utilities has made across all its operations to adapt its water and wastewater services to climate change through a variety of measures including long-term planning, building resilient infrastructure, ensuring diverse water resources, its approach to rainwater management, environmental programmes on its own land and embracing innovation.

Adam Lechmere, Head of Sustainability at United Utilities welcomed the award saying: “We are incredibly proud to achieve this recognition as it looks at steps we have taken across all aspects of the business ranging from how we manage our energy consumption through to our purchasing decisions and how we work with partners to share best practice and develop future skills.

United Utilities adoption of innovation was also recognised.

Adam Lechmere added: “Innovation is embedded across business planning, governance and operations. We collaborate with suppliers, universities, local authorities and infrastructure partners to trial and scale innovations such as chemical free treatment, cement free pre-cast pipes and 3D concrete printing. 

“We’ve embedded climate considerations through our investment programmes and asset management strategies, and these play a key role in helping us maintain reliable services for more than seven million people while protecting the North West’s rivers, lakes and coastlines.”