BLOG. Scotland’s Water in 2026: A Year That Demands Our Attention - Deirdre Michie, Scottish Water Chair

“Water is no longer a background issue — it is central to Scotland’s climate resilience, economic stability, and public health.”

Deirdre Michie
Chair, Scottish Water

As we step into 2026, it’s clear this will be a defining year for the water sector. What makes it different is not a single challenge, but the way multiple forces are converging — creating risks we cannot ignore, and opportunities we cannot afford to miss.

Water is rising up the global agenda. Policy decisions at the highest level — from UN discussions to the UN Water Conference in the UAE later this year — will shape how countries, regulators, and utilities respond to water challenges for decades. Water is no longer a background issue. It is central to climate adaptation, economic stability, and public health.

Technology is changing what’s possible. 

Innovation

At Scottish Water, we’re already putting AI and digital twins to work to detect leaks faster, forecast demand, and manage networks more efficiently.

Smart monitoring systems allow us to respond in real time to pressures on the network, reducing waste and keeping supply secure for communities.

These tools are giving us insights we could only dream of a few years ago — but technology alone is not enough. Insight, courage, and a willingness to challenge long-held assumptions remain just as essential.

Climate extremes are intensifying, and the pressure on infrastructure is real. From floods to droughts, we are seeing what it means to plan in an era of unpredictability. 

Scottish Water is responding with nature-based solutions, such as wetland restoration and catchment management, alongside traditional infrastructure upgrades. 

This combined approach not only protects communities but also benefits the environment and wildlife. The decisions we make now — about investment, resilience, and customer protection — will echo for decades.

2026 is also exciting for the opportunities it offers to learn, collaborate, and lead. Scotland will host the International Water Association’s World Water Congress, bringing thought-leaders and innovators from across the globe to shape the future of water. 

Around Europe and beyond events such as the World Water-Tech Innovation and Global Water Leakage summits, both being held in London, and the Global Water Summit in Spain will aim to challenge conventional thinking, test ideas, and spark partnerships.

These gatherings make this year one of unprecedented activity for the water community worldwide. And closer to home, for Scotland, this is more than a chance to showcase what we have achieved. It is a moment to listen, learn, and bring back insights that can strengthen our systems and influence how water is managed globally.

Collaboration

At Scottish Water, we are already building collaboration into the way we work: partnerships with local authorities, universities, and international utilities are helping us trial new technologies, test climate resilience strategies, and improve customer engagement. 

Hosting the IWA’s prestigious annual event in October in Glasgow allows us at Scottish Water  (along with varied our supply and delivery partners, most of whom are based in Scotland) to demonstrate what public service, sustainability, and innovation can achieve — while reminding us that leadership in water is about curiosity as much as competence.

We should be proud of the progress we are making but humble too. We must celebrate what works, while being open to new ideas, different approaches, and challenging conversations. Leadership in water is not just about pipes, reservoirs, or technology; it is about shaping dialogue, influencing policy, and preparing our country for the water challenges ahead.

Climate

2026 will continue to challenge the sector, with climate volatility, ageing assets and population change remaining key pressures. 

Scotland is well positioned to respond, leading where we can, learning where we must, and using the conversations we host and participate in to help deliver lasting outcomes for communities and the environment.

Scottish Water is also well prepared. Our recent performance demonstrates strong customer satisfaction, continued innovation in the face of challenge, and sustained long-term investment.

This is a year to be ambitious, to engage internationally, and to demonstrate how public water services can combine innovation, resilience and public value. It is an exciting period for the water sector, with much to come, so watch this space!