The world of water is constantly evolving. Climate change and the increasing demand for water present new challenges. Brabant Water has joined forces with Six Fingers to explore the future and prepare for what lies ahead.
By looking ahead, Brabant Water can continue to ensure a reliable drinking water supply—both now and for future generations. In doing so, Brabant Water is preparing for a sustainable future.
The water sector is on the verge of significant change. It is difficult to predict what the industry will look like in ten years due to the uncertainty of the current situation. At the same time, this uncertainty presents opportunities to plan ahead. Brabant Water has taken an important step by working with Six Fingers to explore different future scenarios. This proactive approach allows the company to prepare for potential developments and continue providing reliable drinking water to its customers.
Societal Developments
Climate change is a widely discussed topic, and it also impacts the availability of drinking water in the Netherlands. At the same time, demand remains high—on average, each person consumes 129 liters of water per day.
The future is full of surprises. Brabant Water wants to proactively anticipate potential changes in the drinking water sector. Together with Six Fingers, the company has used Strategic Foresight to map out possible future scenarios. This approach enables them to remain flexible and resilient in responding to various developments. While the future remains uncertain, Brabant Water is well-prepared for what may come.
Envisioning the Future
Exploring the future is not an exact science, but studying trends and scenarios provides valuable insights. By analyzing influences from the drinking water sector, society, and consumer behavior, key changes can be identified early on. Consider the impact of emerging technologies, shifting consumer habits, or the increasing role of sustainability in everyday life. These insights form the foundation for four future scenarios, each offering practical recommendations. With these insights, Brabant Water can anticipate change and make informed decisions for its customers, employees, and society as a whole.
Keep Asking Questions
Future scenarios help Brabant Water take a broad perspective on important developments. Often, two plausible yet contrasting outcomes emerge from these developments, both of which could be true. Preparing for both possibilities ensures readiness for any direction the future takes.
For example, will consumers adopt more sustainable habits and reduce their water consumption to a maximum of 100 liters per day? Or will behaviors remain unchanged, leading to increased water scarcity and higher costs? And if consumers do not take action, will other stakeholders in the drinking water sector step in? What role will technology play in all of this? Will it enable smarter water management? Will it provide insights into water reserves? Or will it open up new sources of water?
These are just some of the questions and possibilities that could shape the future. The joint team from Six Fingers and Brabant Water has assessed which developments present opportunities for Brabant Water to contribute to a sustainable future.
Looking Ahead
The future remains uncertain, but Brabant Water chooses to see this uncertainty not as an obstacle, but as an opportunity for growth and strength. By collaborating and investing in research and scenario planning, the company can remain agile and take responsibility for its customers and society. By continuously monitoring developments, Brabant Water can gain clearer insights into the direction the future will take—and be well-prepared for whatever comes next.
Author: Brabant Water & Six Fingers