Is water Northern Ireland's next green economy opportunity?

When you think of the green economy, you probably think of renewable energy and electric vehicles. But, one of the greatest opportunities for environmental innovation is hiding in plain sight: water.

Around the world, the green economy is placing an increasing emphasis on water. Climate change is increasing the frequency of droughts and flooding. Ageing infrastructure is placing pressure on public systems, and there are growing regulatory expectations around water quality, resource efficiency and environmental performance.

Collectively, these challenges are transforming how governments and industries think about water management, which is creating opportunities in global markets for new technologies, services and expertise.

In this article, Eugene Heaney discusses how water represents a significant green economy opportunity in Northern Ireland. 

Northern Ireland already has the existing capabilities and expertise needed to compete in water innovation. This is bolstered by our strength in key sectors that are vital to the future of water innovation, such as digital technologies, advanced manufacturing and engineering. 

We also have an abundance of natural resources and a commitment to sustainable solutions supported by government policies, which has fostered an ecosystem that supports green technologies. For example, there is an estimated four million mega litres of rechargeable water available from underground aquafers annually, and research centres of excellence to propel research and development (R&D).

Many of our innovative small and medium enterprises (SMEs) are developing specialist solutions and a strong research base capable of supporting commercial innovation in the water sector. Photonic Measurements, for example, is applying advanced sensing technologies for environmental monitoring and water quality analysis, while Clinty Group is developing specialist treatment solutions that support more sustainable water management across the industry.

But perhaps our greatest advantage is our ability to collaborate.

The most successful innovation ecosystems around the world are built on strong networks rather than individual organisations. Water presents an opportunity to harness collective capabilities to create solutions that address challenges in Northern Ireland while opening doors to opportunities in international markets. This is already beginning to take shape through the Water Innovation Network, supported by our Cluster Acceleration Programme. The network is bringing together businesses, researchers, utilities, technology providers and industry stakeholders to explore shared challenges, identify market opportunities and accelerate innovation across the sector. The Water Innovation Network connects its members to international bodies and a live R&D pipeline, aiming to change how water is valued, managed and protected in Northern Ireland. 

By creating stronger industry connections and encouraging collaborative innovation, the network has the potential to help businesses develop new products, attract investment, access new markets and strengthen Northern Ireland's reputation as a centre of excellence in sustainable water solutions.

Encouraging more collaboration and innovation in the water industry will grow Northern Ireland’s global reputation and open new opportunities to our businesses operating in the sector.