All-Party Parliamentary Water Group February 2022

Event: All‑Party Parliamentary Water Group (APPG) Meeting

Date: February 2022

Location: UK Parliament (hybrid format – in‑person and virtual participation)

Type of CPD: Policy engagement / parliamentary briefing / strategic sector insight

Duration: 1–2 hours (plus preparation and follow‑up)

Summary of the Event

I participated in the February 2022 meeting of the All‑Party Parliamentary Water Group (APPG), a cross‑party forum that brings together MPs, peers, regulators, utilities, innovators and sector experts to discuss key issues affecting the UK water industry. The APPG provides a platform for evidence‑based dialogue between policymakers and the water sector, helping inform parliamentary understanding and future policy direction.

The February session focused on emerging challenges in water management, including climate resilience, water quality, infrastructure investment, innovation, and the regulatory landscape. The meeting also explored how the sector can accelerate progress on environmental outcomes and support national priorities such as net‑zero, nature recovery and resilience to extreme weather.

Key Themes Covered

  • Water quality and environmental performance Parliamentary scrutiny of storm overflows, river health, and regulatory expectations.
  • Climate resilience and adaptation Preparing for drought, flooding, and long‑term climate pressures across catchments and infrastructure.
  • Innovation and digital transformation The role of technology, data and real‑time monitoring in improving environmental outcomes.
  • Investment and affordability Balancing long‑term infrastructure needs with customer affordability and regulatory frameworks.
  • Nature‑based solutions Opportunities for catchment management, wetlands, and integrated water‑environment strategies.
  • Policy and governance How government, regulators and industry can collaborate to deliver better outcomes for people and the environment.