The Future of Water

By Bluefield Research

Bluefield Research’s podcast series breaks down the biggest and smallest events signaling change and opportunity across the global water landscape. From municipal to industrial, vendor to utility, loc... more

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FAQs about The Future of Water:

How many episodes does The Future of Water have?

The podcast currently has 120 episodes available.

The Future of Water episodes:

November 12, 2024How Are Hardware, Equipment, and Services Distributors Driving Change in the Water Sector?
As companies like Core & Main, Ferguson, and DXP Enterprises evolve from middlemen to essential market channels, they’re shaping the water industry through expansive networks, deep customer relationships, and a strong logistical presence. In this episode, Reese Tisdale is joined by Bluefield Analyst Mike Muroff to dive into the crucial role that hardware, equipment, and services distributors play in the water sector. They explore how these distributors are meeting local demand in an increasingly fragmented market, where addressing specialized needs is key.
Key Insights:
Consolidation as a Competitive Advantage: Driven by mergers and acquisitions, distributors are rapidly capturing market share. In the past decade alone, over 130 M&A deals have helped major players like Core & Main and Ferguson establish a stronghold in the US$40 billion water infrastructure market, even as the market remains fragmented.
Distributors as Essential Channels: Major distributors serve as the backbone for reaching end-users across the sector. Their extensive branch networks and customer connections make them critical in navigating local demand and providing tailored solutions.
Evolving Business Strategies: With a focus on M&A-driven geographic expansion, diversifying supply chains, and adopting digital tools, top distributors are strengthening their channels to market and positioning themselves for scalable growth.
Digital Transformation’s Role: From Core & Main’s Online Advantage platform to Ferguson’s partnership with Trimble, digital tools are redefining operational efficiencies and customer engagement. Distributors leading in digital innovation are finding ways to streamline processes, while those lagging may risk falling behind.
Environmental & Regulatory Impacts: New infrastructure initiatives, including the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act and the Inflation Reduction Act, have heightened the importance of environmental compliance. Distributors are aligning with these standards to remain competitive, especially as extreme weather challenges continue to impact supply chains.
Resilience Amid Economic Pressures: In the face of inflation and rising interest rates, leading distributors maintain growth by focusing on the non-residential sector and employing targeted M&A and capital strategies. These approaches help bolster their regional presence and support ongoing resilience.
If you enjoy listening to The Future of Water Podcast, please tell a friend or colleague, and if you haven’t already, please click to follow this podcast wherever you listen.
If you’d like to be informed of water market news, trends, perspectives and analysis from Bluefield Research, subscribe to Waterline, our weekly newsletter published each Wednesday.
...more
38min
October 29, 2024Flood Management Under Pressure: Europe's Response to Storm Boris
With climate change accelerating the frequency and intensity of extreme weather events, countries across the continent are grappling with the need for resilient infrastructure. This conversation couldn’t be more timely: recently, Storm Boris brought nearly 500mm of rainfall—almost 20 inches—across Central Europe, testing current flood management defenses and highlighting critical gaps. In this episode, Zineb Moumen, an Analyst with Bluefield’s Europe team, dives into the pressing issue of flood management and flood resiliency across Europe.
Together, Zineb and podcast host Reese Tisdale explore how recent weather events like Storm Boris are shaping flood resilience strategies and investment in Europe, including traditional engineering projects and cutting-edge digital solutions. They also examine how these changes are shaping the market for engineering firms, utilities, and technology providers who are racing to keep pace with rising flood risks.
In this session, Bluefield's water experts address these questions:
How did Storm Boris challenge flood control efforts in Central Europe, and what lessons have emerged?
How is climate change influencing investment in Europe’s flood management, and where are the emerging opportunities?
What role do digital tools and technologies play in today’s flood management systems?
How are insurers and financial services adjusting to increased flood risks?
If you enjoy listening to The Future of Water Podcast, please tell a friend or colleague, and if you haven’t already, please click to follow this podcast wherever you listen.
If you’d like to be informed of water market news, trends, perspectives and analysis from Bluefield Research, subscribe to Waterline, our weekly newsletter published each Wednesday.
Related Research & Analysis:
Storm Boris Tests Central Europe Flood Control
Europe Lays the Foundations for the Water Sector’s Complex Future: Bluefield’s 2024 Regional Outlook
U.S. Stormwater Infrastructure Market: Key Drivers, Competitive Shifts & Investment Outlook, 2024–2030
...more
28min
October 08, 2024San Francisco vs. the EPA: What's at Stake for the Future of Water Regulation?
Reese Tisdale is joined by Bluefield’s Senior Research Director Greg Goodwin to explore the upcoming Supreme Court case: City and County of San Francisco vs. Environmental Protection Agency. The outcome of this case could reshape the balance of regulatory authority between federal and state governments, with major implications for water quality standards across the U.S.
The case centers on San Francisco’s challenge to the EPA’s authority under the Clean Water Act, particularly its use of vague discharge rules that lack clear numerical limits. San Francisco argues that the EPA’s reliance on generic prohibitions without quantifiable limits makes compliance difficult and could result in up to US$10 billion in additional capital expenditures.
On the other side, thirteen Attorneys General for Democratically governed states are urging the Court to preserve the EPA’s authority to set “narrative” limits, supported by scientists who claim that narrative-based limitations can be more effective in certain cases, such as nutrient discharges, by allowing more flexibility for the permit holder.
Reese and Greg dive into six key questions:
What is the significance of the upcoming Supreme Court hearing on the EPA and water regulations?
How does the case challenge the Clean Water Act?
What are the potential legal implications for cities and industries if the Supreme Court limits the EPA's regulatory power?
How does this Supreme Court case tie into broader regulatory shifts in the water sector, especially with the 2024 elections on the horizon?
What impact could a decision in favor of San Francisco have on national water policies?
How this case connects to broader concerns in the water industry, such as PFAS and lead service line replacement?
If you enjoy listening to The Future of Water Podcast, please tell a friend or colleague, and if you haven’t already, please click to follow this podcast wherever you listen.
If you’d like to be informed of water market news, trends, perspectives and analysis from Bluefield Research, subscribe to Waterline, our weekly newsletter published each Wednesday.
Related Research & Analysis:
U.K. Water Utilities’ Road to AMP8: Proposed Business Plans and Regulator’s Review
2024 U.S. Elections: Implications for the Water Industry
...more
23min
September 24, 2024Show Me the Money: Where Are Utilities Investing in Water?
In this episode, Reese Tisdale is joined by Bluefield's Senior Research Director Eric Bindler to break down the essential role of Capital Improvement Plans (CIPs) in guiding water utility infrastructure investments. As part of an annual Bluefield tradition, our analysis of nearly 800 CIPs across the U.S. and Canada reveals insights into how water utilities are planning US$345 billion in capital investments through 2032.
Eric answers seven key questions, covering everything from the basics of what CIPs are to why they are crucial for utilities. The discussion also highlights:
Why CIPs Matter: These plans provide a structured approach for long-term infrastructure projects, ensuring utilities can prioritize spending and address public health, regulatory compliance, and climate resilience.
How Bluefield Does It: Eric explains Bluefield’s research methodology, which involves analyzing thousands of line-item data across water, wastewater, and stormwater utilities, capturing nearly 45,000 individual projects categorized into 48 distinct categories.
Investment Insights: The US$345 billion includes a mix of critical projects—46% for water, 44% for wastewater, and 9% for stormwater infrastructure. Notable project types include pipe networks, water treatment plants, cybersecurity, and PFAS mitigation.
These CIPs translate utility capital needs into market opportunities for technology and equipment vendors as well as engineers and construction firms. Bluefield has detailed CIP data to help clients navigate market opportunities and make informed decisions.
If you enjoy listening to The Future of Water Podcast, please tell a friend or colleague, and if you haven’t already, please click to follow this podcast wherever you listen.
If you’d like to be informed of water market news, trends, perspectives and analysis from Bluefield Research, subscribe to Waterline, our weekly newsletter published each Wednesday.
Related Research & Analysis:
U.S. & Canada Municipal Utility Capital Improvement Plans: Water, Wastewater, & Stormwater Budget Outlook, 2024–2032
...more
44min
September 10, 2024Private Equity Adds Water Treatment Chemicals to Their Playbook
In this episode, host Reese Tisdale is joined by Bluefield Research's Senior Analyst, Ethan Edwards, for a deep dive into the recent US$2 billion acquisition of USALCO by private equity firm TJC—the biggest deal in the water sector this year so far. USALCO, a key player in the water and wastewater treatment chemicals market, was acquired from H.I.G. Capital, which retained a minority stake. Reese and Ethan explore the strategic importance of this deal and what it signals for the water sector moving forward.
Questions addressed in this conversation:
What are the basics of TJC's acquisition of USALCO and its significance in the broader water treatment chemicals market?
How has USALCO's acquisitive strategy transformed the company's footprint in the U.S., particularly in the water and wastewater treatment sectors?
What role has private equity played in consolidating the water treatment chemicals market, and why is this consolidation happening at such a rapid pace?
How are water treatment chemical producers managing high cost pressures, and what are the broader implications for the industry's profitability?
Looking ahead, Bluefield's water experts discuss what’s on the horizon for the water treatment chemicals market, including the potential for more M&A activity, IPOs like Solenis’ planned for 2025, and the impact of persistently high interest rates on deal flow.
If you enjoy listening to The Future of Water Podcast, please tell a friend or colleague, and if you haven’t already, please click to follow this podcast wherever you listen.
If you’d like to be informed of water market news, trends, perspectives and analysis from Bluefield Research, subscribe to Waterline, our weekly newsletter published each Wednesday.
Related Research & Analysis:
USALCO Deal Points to Private Equity’s Role in Consolidation of Water Treatment Chemicals
Water for Chemicals: Market Trends and Forecasts, 2023–2030
Private Equity Takes Wheel of H2O Innovation
...more
31min
August 27, 2024Uncharted Waters: Are U.K. Utilities Ready for the AMP8 Investment Cycle?
The U.K.'s water sector is facing a critical juncture in preparation for the upcoming AMP8 investment cycle. This cycle sets the financial agenda for the world's most privatized water market, with a proposed £104.6 billion investment.
Episode 101 features host Reese Tisdale with Bluefield Senior Research Director Chloé Meyer. In this episode, they discuss the transformative potential of AMP8, which aims to tackle aging infrastructure, enhance environmental protections, and secure a sustainable water supply. Reese and Chloé explore key challenges, opportunities, and regulatory pressures that will shape the next five years of the U.K.'s water industry.
Drawing from Bluefield's latest report, "U.K. Water Utilities' Road to AMP8", the discussion includes analysis of proposed business plans by U.K. water utilities.
Topics covered include:
Market Overview: Understanding the current state of the U.K. water sector and its global significance.
Privatization Dynamics: How privatization has shaped the water sector and what changes AMP8 might bring.
Ofwat's Role and Influence: The regulatory power of Ofwat and its impact on investment and operational strategies.
Financial Health and Risk: Assessing the financial stability of water utilities amidst unprecedented investment demands.
Environmental and Technological Shifts: How the water industry is responding to environmental challenges and adopting new technologies.
Leakage Reduction Strategies: New approaches to tackle one of the sector's most pressing issues.
Brexit Impacts: The implications of Brexit on regulatory frameworks and investment in the water sector.
If you enjoy listening to The Future of Water Podcast, please tell a friend or colleague, and if you haven’t already, please click to follow this podcast wherever you listen.
If you’d like to be informed of water market news, trends, perspectives and analysis from Bluefield Research, subscribe to Waterline, our weekly newsletter published each Wednesday.
Related Research & Analysis:
U.K. Water Utilities’ Road to AMP8: Proposed Business Plans and Regulator’s Review
Europe Municipal Water: Key Trends, Policy Activity, and Market Outlook, Q2 2024
...more
51min
August 06, 2024From Milestones to Predictions: What’s Next for the Future of Water?
Four years after the launch of The Future of Water podcast, milestone episode #100 has arrived! In this episode, podcast host Reese Tisdale is joined by VP & Managing Director Keith Hays as they reflect on the evolution of the water sector and look ahead to its future.
Reese and Keith begin by reflecting on the most impactful events and trends over the past four years, such as the toilet paper shortage and fatbergs, the rise in demand for data centers, and the Thames Water financial crisis.
The second half of the episode explores what's on the horizon for the water industry. Key topics include, but are not limited to:
Impact of AI and Machine Learning: How these technologies are enhancing mineral exploration by analyzing vast datasets, crucial for meeting rising demand for critical minerals.
Impending Day Zeros: As Day Zero events are expected to increase, the need for effective water conservation strategies is increasing, especially in regions facing severe water stress and high leakage rates.
Role of Big Tech: The impact of big tech companies in driving digital transformation with smart technologies and real-time monitoring, improving efficiency and addressing water sector data needs.
If you enjoy listening to The Future of Water Podcast, please tell a friend or colleague, and if you haven’t already, please click to follow this podcast wherever you listen.
If you’d like to be informed of water market news, trends, perspectives and analysis from Bluefield Research, subscribe to Waterline, our weekly newsletter published each Wednesday.
Related Research & Analysis:
Water for Data Centers: Market Trends and Forecasts, 2023–2030
AI in the Utility Construction Industry: Key Market Trends, Applications, and Best Practices
Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA): Tracking the Spending, Q1 2024
...more
1h 8min
July 23, 2024How Will the 2024 U.S. Presidential Election Shape the Future of Water Management?
With the 2024 U.S. presidential election on the horizon and U.S. President Joe Biden announcing his exit from the race, the political landscape is heating up.
In this episode of The Future of Water, Podcast Host Reese Tisdale speaks with Senior Research Director Greg Goodwin, diving into Bluefield's new white paper, "2024 U.S. Elections: Implications for the Water Industry".
At the time of recording this episode, Joe Biden was still the Democratic candidate for president. However, over the weekend, the political landscape shifted. Biden's sudden withdrawal from re-election certainly shakes things up, but for the water and wastewater sectors, a Democratic victory in the White House is expected to maintain the current course at the federal level. While many anticipate Vice President Kamala Harris to step up as the new candidate, the political outlook, as discussed with Greg, remains largely unchanged. The real game-changer, however, looms in a potential Trump win—promising a seismic shift that could echo the transformative policies proposed during his previous term.
Reese and Greg unpack how decisions made in the upcoming election can reshape water management in the U.S., addressing critical issues such as aging infrastructure, climate resilience, and water quality.
Greg tackles three crucial questions:
How will the outcome of the 2024 elections influence regulatory policies in the water sector?
What major water-related initiatives are on-the-line in this election?
How shifts in economic policies may impact the water industry?
If you enjoy listening to The Future of Water Podcast, please tell a friend or colleague, and if you haven’t already, please click to follow this podcast wherever you listen.
If you’d like to be informed of water market news, trends, perspectives and analysis from Bluefield Research, subscribe to Waterline, our weekly newsletter published each Wednesday.
Related Research & Analysis:
2024 U.S. Elections: Implications for the Water Industry
Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA): Tracking the Spending, Q1 2024
State of the Market: PFAS Policy Landscape, Forecasts, and Competitive Analysis
...more
36min
July 09, 2024Answering Ten Burning Questions about the Private Water Industry
Bluefield water experts recently presented a private water client webcast in collaboration with the National Association of Water Companies, From PFAS to Consolidation: Key Water Market Developments Impacting Utility Strategies. In this special mailbag episode, podcast host Reese Tisdale and Senior Analyst Charlie Suse answer industry questions received from this webcast, providing in-depth insights into key water market developments.
Topics covered, questions answered:
How does Bluefield define the range (very small–very large) for water utility system sizes, especially when evaluating the relationship between system size and U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) regulations?
When the health-based violation data is normalized against the number of community water systems, what does that data show?
What is a realistic annual cost estimate for PFAS maximum contaminant level compliance, given that the EPA's US$1.5 billion per year estimate seems low?
How much are Public Utility Commissions willing to provide rate relief for consolidators purchasing small, troubled systems?
How is workforce development and the fast approaching retirement wave affecting the water industry?
How has the role of private equity played out in the regulated/non-regulated water utility segments?
How has the non-regulated market grown in the last decade, and what is its future trajectory?
What are the opportunities in private water outside the U.S.?
Why is wastewater seen as less risky and more attractive for market entry?
Beyond the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, what is the outlook for future federal incentives in the water sector?
If you enjoy listening to The Future of Water Podcast, please tell a friend or colleague, and if you haven’t already, please click to follow this podcast wherever you listen.
If you’d like to be informed of water market news, trends, perspectives and analysis from Bluefield Research, subscribe to Waterline, our weekly newsletter published each Wednesday.
Related Research & Analysis:
From PFAS to Consolidation, Key Water Market Developments Impacting Utility Strategies
Opportunities in the U.S. Private Water Market
Investor-Owned Utilities in Water: Market Share and Company Rankings
...more
41min
June 25, 2024What's Driving Rapid Growth in U.S. Stormwater Management?
Interest in the stormwater management market is on the rise, driven by urgent environmental challenges and infrastructure needs. Reese Tisdale is joined by Senior Research Director Eric Bindler to unpack Bluefield's latest stormwater infrastructure report. In this discussion, they dive into the nuances of stormwater management, exploring its impact across municipal water systems, transportation networks, and real estate development.
In this episode:
Market Drivers: Explore the significant factors propelling the stormwater management surge—climate change implications, stormwater pollution concerns, and the ongoing construction boom.
Key Questions Addressed:
Funding Disparities: Understand why stormwater management has historically received less funding compared to drinking water and wastewater sectors.
Market Growth Projections: Gain insights into the expected expansion of the U.S. stormwater infrastructure market by 2030.
Regional Insights: Discover intriguing trends and developments at the state and regional levels shaping stormwater management strategies.
Solutions in Focus: Learn about the diverse range of solutions—from traditional infrastructure to innovative green technologies—being deployed to tackle stormwater challenges.
Competitive Landscape: Identify the leading companies and emerging players driving innovation and competition in the stormwater management sector.
If you enjoy listening to The Future of Water Podcast, please tell a friend or colleague, and if you haven’t already, please click to follow this podcast wherever you listen.
If you’d like to be informed of water market news, trends, perspectives and analysis from Bluefield Research, subscribe to Waterline, our weekly newsletter published each Wednesday.
Related Research & Analysis:
U.S. Stormwater Infrastructure Market: Key Drivers, Competitive Shifts & Investment Outlook, 2024–2030
...more
46min

FAQs about The Future of Water:

How many episodes does The Future of Water have?

The podcast currently has 120 episodes available.