Water UK

Hosted by Secretary of State for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs, The Rt Hon Margaret Beckett MP, Source 2004 was held on 21 October 2004 at Lancaster House in London.

The UK water industry makes sustainability the core of all its activity and seeks an integrated, long-term approach to policy-making – for customers, the environment, the economy, public health and communities. Source 2004 reflected this inclusive approach, bringing together key stakeholders to explore a vision for solutions that are truly sustainable.

Source Report 2004
Source 2004: Sustainability and Water

Source 2004

Margaret Beckett
Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs
I am delighted to be speaking to you today. I congratulate Water UK for setting up this event, which I am delighted to be formally hosting. The event is partnership in action and we shall continue to need a great deal of close partnership working in the water sector if we are going to address the significant challenges that lie ahead.
Full speech

Pamela Taylor
Chief Executive Water UK
This evening, I want to highlight four aspects of the UK water industry. First, our current performance. Second, the dilemma - identity crisis, if you like - we are experiencing in the sector and what we are doing to resolve it. Third, three of the main challenges we will face in the future later in the programme: water resources, water and health, and future regulation.
Full speech

Summary of the three main challenges facing the UK water sector

Challenge 1 Water Resources
To achieve management of water resources that serves society and benefits the environment at reasonable cost.
Full background

Challenge 2 Water and Health
To realise the potential public health benefit of low cost, high quality drinking water by improving access, awareness and perception.
Full background

Challenge 3 Future Regulation
To design future water regulation that is better at promoting customer service, environmental protection and economic development.
Full background

Key documents relating to Water UK activity in 2003-04
Sustainable industry