Photo by Nathan Dumlao on Unsplash
Emergen Research’s latest analysis shows that the global smart water management market size will reach $18.9 billion in 2028, registering a 12.6% CAGR, over the forecast period, according to Yahoo Finance. As urban cities become smarter and technologically advanced, the requirement for insightful water management approaches is increasing drastically. Population growth and suburbanization are two key factors contributing to the inequality between market interests of water resources. Moreover, the declining water frameworks are weighing down the global freshwater supply. Because of these challenges, it is now crucial for cities to rely on the latest innovations in water technology. By leveraging technologies like artificial intelligence, the Internet of Things, and Big Data, urban areas can successfully help fight the global water crisis. Below are a few smart water management solutions for cities of the future.
IoT Sensors
Sensors powered by the Internet of Things have many applications in innovative water management because of their great diversity. With the help of IoT sensors, water managers identify anomalies in water systems, including pipe leaks and equipment failure. Other applications of IoT sensors in water management include measuring the quality of raw water in catchment areas and the quantity of water in reservoirs. These sensors also help measure the composition of chemicals in water after treatment. Generally, using real-time data collected by IoT-enabled water sensors, the water supply chain managers can get a clear picture of the changing of water infrastructure. Most importantly, they can monitor the changes in water resources and make data-driven decisions to improve water efficiency.
Automated meter readers
Unlike traditional meters, automated meter readers collect data in real-time to help transform water consumption and costs. One of the key benefits of automatic meter readers is the accuracy of water flow reading. Since automated meter readers guarantee accurate information regarding water flow, customers can monitor water usage closely. As a result, consumers can take practical measures to use less water at work and in homes.
By leveraging real-time water monitoring, business owners can easily detect leaks that result in a considerable amount of water waste annually. They can then fix underlying problems such as broken pipes quickly to prevent major breakdowns and costly repairs. Another benefit of smart metering is easy integration with mobile devices. This allows remote meter reading, making it easy for consumers to analyze data and regulate water consumption.
Artificial intelligence
There are many ways AI can transform water management in urban cities. For instance, city officials can leverage artificial intelligence to manage water wastage. In most cases, burst pipes and faucet leakages are the key factors that cause water wastage in households and commercial buildings. Because AI provides real-time water loss assessment, it can help reduce wastage caused by leakages. Not to mention water managers can use artificial intelligence technology to shut off pipes automatically. Artificial intelligence can also enhance water management by improving efficiency in water plants and optimizing water resources, wastewater treatment, and smart irrigation.
Increasing population, climate change, and suburbanization contribute to water scarcity in many cities worldwide. And while investing in new dams, pipes, and storage tanks sounds ideal for tackling this issue, it isn’t always feasible. Instead, innovative technologies must be part of water management to enhance the delivery of freshwater supply in businesses and households. Technologies used in water management include intelligent meter readers, IoT sensors, artificial intelligence, and automated distributed systems.
Author: Jennifer Finn
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