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The development of a pioneering ‘weather service’ for water quality, initially launched in Australia as AquaWatch, is set to expand its reach to the UK through a collaborative effort between the two countries’ space agencies. Leveraging bilateral support and co-funding, AquaWatch UK will mark the first instance of this initiative being implemented on a national scale outside of Australia.
Originally conceived by CSIRO, Australia’s leading science agency, in partnership with SmartSat CRC and a network of collaborators, AquaWatch Australia was designed to establish a comprehensive system for monitoring water quality and providing early warning forecasts. By integrating data from a network of water-based sensors and satellite sensors, AquaWatch offers near-real-time updates and forecasts crucial for managing various water bodies, from coastal wetlands to coral reefs.
The expansion of AquaWatch to the UK is made possible through the UK Space Agency’s International Bilateral Fund, with financial backing from the Australian Space Agency, under the auspices of the UK-Australia Space Bridge initiative. This collaboration allows for the advancement of AquaWatch technology in both countries, with expertise and resources being shared to enhance the system’s capabilities.
Key technological partners are integral to the implementation of AquaWatch AUK. One partner’s involvement underscores the commitment to developing cutting-edge space technologies that can revolutionize water quality monitoring and forecasting. Through collaborative efforts with CSIRO, SmartSat CRC, and other stakeholders, the partner aims to accelerate the deployment of AquaWatch across Australia, the UK, and beyond.
The technological framework of AquaWatch encompasses sophisticated spacecraft platforms and advanced data processing techniques, enabling comprehensive monitoring of water quality parameters. Test sites established in both Australia and the UK serve as proving grounds for refining the system’s capabilities, with a focus on addressing challenges such as pollution from agricultural runoff and industrial activities.
In addition to monitoring water quality, AquaWatch AUK contributes to broader environmental initiatives, such as the EO4Agriclimate projects, which utilise satellite observations to assess changes in land and water environments. This holistic approach enhances understanding of the factors driving water quality dynamics and supports efforts aimed at sustainable development and environmental stewardship.
The collaborative nature of AquaWatch AUK underscores the transformative potential of space technology in addressing global challenges and underscores the importance of international cooperation in advancing scientific innovation for the benefit of communities worldwide. Through ongoing collaboration and technological innovation, AquaWatch continues to pave the way for effective water resource management and environmental protection on a global scale.
The Global Water Quality Monitoring Market is projected to exhibit a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 5.51% during the forecast period from 2023 to 2030, with anticipated revenues reaching US$8.27572 billion by 2030, up from US$5.420 billion in 2022.
Technological advancements are the primary drivers of market expansion, facilitating more accurate and comprehensive detection of contaminants in water. Sensor technology has evolved significantly, enabling real-time monitoring of water quality and detection of hazardous components. Integration of advanced sensor networks utilising wireless technology further enhances monitoring capabilities, particularly in drinking water distribution systems.
The integration of Internet of Things (IoT)-based systems in smart water quality monitoring (SWQM) presents lucrative growth prospects for the market. IoT-enabled smart sensors are increasingly employed in water quality monitoring devices, enabling real-time parameter measurement. These systems ensure high-quality water for various applications and help prevent potential health hazards such as Legionella outbreaks by monitoring water pipes. As a result, IoT technology plays a pivotal role in advancing water quality monitoring systems, ensuring efficient water supply and management.
