National “Water is Your Business” Campaign Launched

U.S. Chamber and National Association of Water Companies Launch ‘Water Is Your Business’ Series
— Partnership Highlights Best Practices to Improve Economic Competitiveness for Businesses
By US Chamber of Commerce

MIAMI, FL—The U.S. Chamber of Commerce and the National Association of Water Companies (NAWC) today launched the “Water is Your Business” series to educate public leaders, businesses, and citizens on the importance of water infrastructure to public and environmental health, and the economic vitality of their communities. The kickoff event brought together more than 50 business leaders to examine drinking and wastewater infrastructure needs in the context of regional water management issues.

South Florida water experts discussed the need for adequate water supplies for economic development and population growth, innovative alternatives to groundwater withdrawal, and the beneficial reuse of wastewater. Elected officials and business leaders presented specific examples of how innovative and sustainable water infrastructure practices can improve the economic competitiveness for businesses and the quality of life in local communities.

“Sustainable, safe and reliable water service is the lifeblood of every community,” noted NAWC Executive Director Michael Deane. “The education of business leaders is the right first step on the road to sparking a national dialogue. As business owners, this group already recognizes how sufficient investment, innovative management practices and transparent governance can affect the quality of performance. Our program will further show the great value sustainable water systems can have on their businesses and lives, so they can start to work with their local officials and colleagues to make sure their water utilities are run well and prepared for the future.”

Poised to be held in additional cities across the country, the “Water is Your Business” series raises awareness of the significant economic and ecological impacts of water provision, use and disposal on communities everywhere. Each local dialogue will focus on providing business and community leaders with tools and resources needed to be constructive and influential participants in the discussion on water infrastructure needs. The series is co-hosted by local area chambers of commerce.

“The Chamber recognizes that water infrastructure is a critical part of the physical platform of the U.S. economy,” said Janet Kavinoky, U.S. Chamber Director of Transportation and Infrastructure. “Unfortunately, it is out of sight, out of mind, until a pipe breaks or supplies run low. We want to raise awareness of the needs and potential solutions, in particular, the role of the private sector in delivering sustainable water systems.”

The National Association of Water Companies (NAWC) represents all aspects of the private water service industry. The range of our members’ business includes ownership of regulated drinking water and wastewater utilities, and the many forms of public-private partnerships and management contract arrangements. Seventy-three million Americans – nearly one in four – receive service from a private water service provider.

The U.S. Chamber of Commerce is the world’s largest business federation representing the interests of more than 3 million businesses of all sizes, sectors, and regions, as well as state and local chambers and industry associations. Through the Let’s Rebuild America initiative, the U.S. Chamber of Commerce advocates for the need to maintain, modernize, and expand our nation’s infrastructure.

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