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David Bergmann 
CEO 
Water Research Australia 

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David has work has worked for nearly 25 years in R&D roles in chemicals, food, and water and wastewater sectors in global multinationals, regional utilities and national research agencies. He is an experienced manager and people leader of large research & development groups across a diverse range of industries, cultures, and organisations.

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He has a PhD in Chemistry from Monash University and is also an AICD qualified Company Director. 

 

David joined the water industry in 2015 at South East Water and grew their research portfolio and partnerships significantly during that time.

 

In particular David played a key role in the innovative water and energy saving estate Aquarevo, the development of RMIT of the pyrolysis technology to produce Biochar from biosolids, and the development of various IoT devices and sensors for realtime control.  David is now the Chief Executive Officer of Water Research Australia.

Water RA are a member-based organisation that collaborate on water research, innovation and capability building to support public health and safeguard our environment and precious resources.

He is the holder of multiple patents and is a collaborator in published scientific journals in areas from contaminants, alternative water, and pyrolysis technology and biochar applications.

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David is a strong collaborator and people leader who enjoys developing partnerships and creating the culture for high performing teams. A practical and strategic thinker with a proven track record in delivering transformational change and translating outcomes from research into real world solutions.

Topic
Water trends from the urban sector - technologies and opportunities 
Abstract 

The urban water industry is in a face-off against population growth, urbanization, climate change, ageing assets, and escalating customer expectations.

From traditionally focusing on ‘getting-the-basics-right’ of supply, disposal, and a quarterly bill for the service - the focus of the water utility is shifting to a much broader ‘healthy-water-for life’ with wider social, community and environmental impact.

With the right partners and innovation ecosystem, transformational outcomes become possible such as zero waste, resource recovery, negative emissions, food security, contaminant destruction, cooler cities, and healthier communities.

The solutions that are arising in the industry focus on new and exciting areas such as IoT, digitalization, real-time monitoring and control, the circular economy, diversity of water sources, live condition assessment, and customer and community engagement.

This is challenging an industry that prefers traditional pipes, pumps, valves and meters – and requires new perspectives, new skills, multi-disciplinary partnerships, systems thinking, boldness, innovation, and the willingness to learn. 

The urban water sector has made much progress but also has much to learn. It needs to look broader to other sectors that use water as an essential enabler – mining, food, agriculture, etc – for inspiration and collaboration, for greater social and environmental outcomes.

 

Head Office 

© 2022  website by Mines and Environment

Level 3, 1060 Hay Street

West Perth WA 6005

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www.minesandenvironment.com 

1300 667 709

Mines and Environment acknowledge the traditional custodians throughout Western Australia and their continuing connection to the land, waters, and community. We pay our respects to all members of the Aboriginal communities and their cultures, and to Elders both past and present.

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