Invitation

13th International Rainwater Catchment Systems Conference
5th International Water Sensitive Urban Design Conference
21-23 August 2007
Sydney, Australia

On behalf of the International Rainwater Catchment Systems Association, Engineers Australia and Water Sensitive Urban Design in the Sydney Region, it is our pleasure to invite you to participate in the Rainwater and Urban Design 2007 Conference in Sydney, Australia. This conference combines the 13th International Rainwater Catchment Systems Association and the 5th International Water Sensitive Urban Design conferences and will host delegates from over 40 countries, who will share their knowledge and expertise of rainwater catchment systems, and water sensitive designs.

A large number of people, particularly those in rural or remote areas, have always used or are dependent on rainwater harvesting systems. Nevertheless, until recently, rainwater harvesting has not been the subject of significant research or policy effort. However, in response to water shortages, there is an emerging interest in the science, safety and governance of rainwater harvesting and alternative water sources. Similarly, water sensitive urban design is emerging as a successful strategy to mitigate the environmental impacts of rural and urban developments. Nevertheless, there is also a need to counter uncertainty about the design, economics, maintenance and application of water sensitive strategies with new science, experience and continuing innovation.

These are major departures from conventional water management practices that require development of new governance, economic and infrastructure provision regimes that may incorporate competitive business structures and distributed solutions rather than the conventional monopoly processes. Importantly these new approaches recognise that a single preferred source of water will no longer guarantee the security of urban water supplies into the future. Successful water supply strategies will include rainwater harvesting and other sources of water that require an understanding of the synergistic benefits of multiple water resource strategies.

Water is essential for life. This conference will provide opportunities for exchange of ideas, experiences and innovation with international delegates on the use of rainwater catchment systems and water sensitive urban design methods to supplement the water resources available and protect the earth's ecosystems.

We look forward to your participation

Did you know this ?

The Decade 2005-2014 is also designated the International Decade for Action "Water for Life"
The Decade 2005-2014 is designated UN Decade of Education for Sustainable Development.

 

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Professional Associations