The University of Texas at Austin is set to significantly reduce its water consumption with the development of the UT WaterHub, a 9,600-square-foot facility on campus. The project, created in partnership with H2O Innovation, aims to address water scarcity and improve the resilience of utility services during storms while dealing with aging infrastructure.
Xavier Rivera Marzán, executive director of utilities and energy management at UT Austin, stated, “This transformational project further positions UT Austin as a national leader in resource management. The UT WaterHub will enable the University to be proactive, resilient and dynamic in our reclaimed and recovered water strategy — prioritizing utility water conservation with auxiliary water resources — and creating a profound, best-in-class service for the University community. We want to thank H2O Innovation for helping us turn this pioneering idea into a reality.”
The WaterHub is expected to cut campus potable water usage by 40% and sewer volume by up to 70%. It will also decrease reliance on city water supplies throughout the year and result in cost savings from reduced water purchases and discharge fees.
Additionally, the facility will utilize fewer chemicals and rely more on natural processes like plant life and gravity for wastewater treatment. This approach minimizes dependence on energy-intensive machinery. Located centrally within the engineering district of campus, it provides an opportunity for students and researchers to engage with real-world applications of water treatment technologies.
Frédéric Dugré, president and CEO of H2O Innovation, remarked on their involvement: “This new UT WaterHub installation exemplifies our mission to revolutionize water management in institutional settings. By combining cutting-edge technology with our innovative financing approach, we’re making it easier for organizations to adopt sustainable water practices that benefit both their bottom line and the environment, paving a step forward in water positivity.”
