Shows
WiseOnWater podcastEpisode 10: Regulation for resilienceThis episode dives into the crucial and often challenging topic of water industry regulation in the UK.As one of the most heavily regulated sectors, water faces a complex web of oversight designed to balance consumer protection, environmental sustainability, and vital infrastructure investment.Natasha examines the roles of key regulatory bodies, including economic regulators such as Ofwat and the Water Industry Commission for Scotland (WICS), environmental overseers like the Environment Agency, Natural Resources Wales, and SEPA, as well as the Drinking Water Inspectorate, which ensures water quality.In this insightful conversation, Natasha is...2025-07-0735 minWiseOnWater podcastEpisode 9: The power of collaborationIn episode 9 of the WiseOnWater podcast, host Natasha Wiseman discusses the critical importance of collaboration in the water sector with guests Mike Rose, Chief Executive of UKWIR, and Jo Harrison, strategic planning and sustainability director at United Utilities. They explore how effective partnerships can drive innovation, tackle climate change, and improve water management practices. The conversation highlights the need for diverse perspectives, community engagement, and the role of technology in shaping a sustainable water future. Takeaways Collaboration is essential for addressing water sector challenges. UKWIR aims to enhance research and innovation thro...2025-06-0228 minWiseOnWater podcastEpisode 8: Empowering customersThis episode of the WiseOnWater podcast delves into the critical themes of customer empowerment and the dynamic changes shaping the water industry. First, host Natasha Wiseman engages in a thought-provoking conversation with Mumin Islam about the need for stronger relationships between water companies and their diverse customers. They explore the challenges of building trust, the transformative power of innovation in enhancing customer engagement, and practical strategies for effective communication and community outreach. The discussion underscores the vital importance of equity, diversity, and inclusion in ensuring water services meet the needs of all communities. In th...2025-05-0528 minWiseOnWater podcastEpisode 7: Operational efficiencyIn this episode, host Natasha Wiseman delves into the heart of operational efficiency within the UK water sector. Featuring insights from Richard Price, Managing Director of Wastewater Services at South West Water, and Duncan Wildgoose, Head of Wastewater at Xylem UK and Ireland, this episode explores the critical challenges and groundbreaking solutions shaping the industry's future. From ambitious AMP8 targets and the integration of AI, to the urgent need for net zero strategies and community engagement, our guests provide expert perspectives on how the sector can optimise operations and drive sustainable outcomes. Key t...2025-04-0227 minWiseOnWater podcastSpecial edition: Live from World Water TechThis special edition WiseOnWater ‘mini pod’ delivers key insights from the World Water Tech Innovation Summit, in a brand-new bitesize format. In this ten-minute podcast, attendees worldwide discuss pressing water challenges and innovative solutions. Kieran Brocklebank of United Utilities highlights the need to blend technology, especially AI, with traditional infrastructure to combat climate change and address forever chemicals. Marcus Rink of the DWI emphasises the regulatory challenges of PFAS, advocating for international collaboration and technology exploration. Andrea Gysin from WSP explores the importance of challenging regulations to drive innovation. Elise Cartmell of Scottish Water details their n...2025-03-1711 minWiseOnWater podcastEpisode 6: Diving into innovationIn episode six of WiseOnWater podcast, host Natasha Wiseman delves into the innovation landscape within the UK water sector, and its role in driving transformation. First, Marc Hannis from Ofwat discusses the innovation fund's purpose, its impact on collaboration among water companies, the importance of commercial aspects in fostering innovation, and the significance of the supply chain and workforce development in managing the substantial investment required for future projects. Next, Natasha speaks to Dr Angela MacOscar, head of innovation at Northumbrian Water. She discusses the company's innovation strategy, the importance of collaboration, and the transformative projects funded th...2025-02-1738 minWiseOnWater podcastEpisode 5: Refreshing water managementIn this episode of the Wise on Water podcast, host Natasha Wiseman engages with Carolyn Cadman, Director of Natural Resources at Southwest Water, to discuss the pressing challenges and innovative solutions in the UK water sector.
The conversation covers the responsibilities of water companies, the importance of nature-based solutions, and the need for increased investment in sustainable practices. Carolyn shares insights on collaborative approaches to water management, the role of the public in behaviour change, and lessons learned from global perspectives on water usage.
Next, Natasha interviews Susie Roy, Technical Director of Water Quality at WSP...2025-01-0625 minWiseOnWater podcastEpisode 4: Tech to the Rescue!In this episode, Natasha discusses water management with Pavan Parshad, head of data science and modelling at Severn Trent. They delve into how advanced analytics, AI, and machine learning are revolutionising water quality, operational efficiency, and failure prevention. Smart metering and innovative projects like wastewater digital twins are also highlighted.
Next, Natasha interviews Ian Thompson, managing director of Xylem UK and Ireland. They explore the challenges of digital transformation in the water sector, the role of digital technologies in meeting regulatory and business goals, and the importance of collaboration. Ian underscores the need for innovation, digital asset co...2024-12-0231 minWiseOnWater podcastEpisode 3: Water under the spotlightIn this episode, we delve into the complex issues facing the UK water sector.
Our first guest, Colin Skellett, a leading figure in the UK water sector, joins us to discuss the pressing challenges and priorities facing the industry and stresses the critical need for investment, particularly in the face of climate change and aging infrastructure.
In our second interview, we spoke with Karma Loveday, editor of the Water Report, about the challenges facing the UK water sector as it enters AMP8. Loveday also explores the loss of public trust in water companies and the need...2024-11-0129 minWiseOnWater podcastEpisode 2: Why work in Water?Join us as we discuss the skills gap in the water industry and delve into the challenges faced by the UK water sector in recruitment and retention.
The first guest, Peter Simpson, chief executive of Anglian Water shares his perspective on the opportunities and challenges presented by the increased investment in the sector.
Our second guest, Dr. Sarah McMath, CEO of MOSL, shares her personal journey into the sector and her insights on fostering a more inclusive and supportive workplace.
Guest 1: Peter Simpson, Chief Executive of Anglian Water
Key discussion points:
2024-09-0935 min
WiseOnWater podcastEpisode 1: The Water Sector: The big pictureThis episode delves into the UK water sector's current state and future prospects.
Our first guest, Helen Wakeham, provides valuable insights into the challenges and goals to be achieved. In the second part of the episode, Margaret Read discusses the infrastructure challenges and investment needs of the UK water sector.
Guest 1: Helen Wakeham, Director at the Environment Agency
Key Discussion Points:
Progress and Challenges: Helen discusses the significant improvements made in the water environment since the 1990s, but emphasises the need for accelerated progress to meet growing demands and address climate chang...2024-09-0630 min