This episode of Future Forward explores the future of water in cities. The conversation begins with a historical overview of water crises in the US, highlighting the need for innovation and change in the water industry. The hosts discuss the challenges of pricing water correctly, the inefficiencies of current water systems, and the importance of redesigning and decentralizing water infrastructure. They also touch on the potential for water recycling and the role of AI in editing the podcast. The episode ends on a hopeful note, emphasizing the need for willpower and innovation to address the water crisis.

water, cities, future, crises, innovation, pricing, infrastructure, recycling, AI

Takeaways

• Water crises have occurred throughout history, highlighting the need for innovation and change in the water industry.
• The pricing of water is a challenge, as it is difficult to balance affordability and the cost of providing clean water.
• Current water systems are inefficient and in need of fundamental redesign, including decentralization and the use of new technologies.
• Water recycling and the use of AI can play a role in addressing the water crisis.
• There is hope for the future of water in cities, but it requires willpower and a commitment to change.

Titles

• A Hopeful Future for Water in Cities
• The Challenge of Pricing Water Correctly

• "Aaron Burr, the infamous Aaron Burr, who apparently was the first person in the US to start a water utility."
• "Water is such a fundamental part of our lives and us being able to form communities and cities."
• "A bottle of water, quote unquote, bottled purified water for what the marketing department suggests these companies should. The same quantity of water is about 220 times what you pay for that water when it comes out of your tap in your home."

Chapters

00:00 Introduction

02:10 The History of Water Crises

08:53 The Challenge of Pricing Water

23:29 The Importance of Redesigning Water Infrastructure

26:44 The Potential for Water Recycling and AI

29:40 Fragmentation and the Need for Change

34:09 A Hopeful Future for Water in Cities

37:00 Closing Remarks