As we start 2011, water quality is back in the news. Don’t just take our word for it. That is the conclusion of one of the premier engineering trade association publications, PME, as the media and consumers are increasingly thinking about their families’ health and safety. And it is one more strong reason to attend WQA Aquatech USA 2011. The Associated Press, the New York Times, and other media outlets have been ramping up coverage of numerous water quality issues, and the federal government is also increasingly looking to our industry. At the trade show, we will be talking about ways to help consumers understand how to react to these changes and challenges. It is your opportunity to get in front of the stories with proven, credible approaches. The conference and exhibition will be held at the Henry B. Gonzalez Convention Center, San Antonio, TX, March 8-11.
Consider some of the news stories and developments that consumers have confronted recently:
- An environmental group that analyzed the drinking water in 35 cities across the United States discovered hexavalent chromium in many cases. This is the carcinogen featured in Erin Brockovich.
- The US just enacted a law to drastically reduce the allowable lead in plumbing fixtures.
- Many communities have faced local concerns, such as radium in Houston and lead in New York City.
- The New York Times published a major series, ‘Toxic Waters’ about contamination in America’s drinking water supply.
Clearly, consumers are becoming more educated about drinking water quality issues. In addition to stories in the media, the industry (in recent months) has opened up a dialog with public officials on the final barrier in an attempt to encourage policymakers to understand that the most practical solution to water-related issues is to integrate POU and curbside systems into the current regulatory paradigm.
WQA Aquatech USA is designed to help those in the industry develop strategies to respond to changing consumer and public policy climates. Through keynote addresses, on-floor education, and networking, those attending will be able to come away with the tools they need to react successfully. In addition, the show will continue to offer other great value to those attending. The exhibition/trade show will feature new products, services, and suppliers. Industry-leading business services, suppliers, and manufacturers will be featured.
The ’WQA Primetime’ Lineup – an overview of the industry’s hot topics, will include keynote speakers. The convention will also include an Industrial Forum/Networking Event, as well as education/training sessions and AquaStages, a series of exhibition floor education/product demonstrations. Educational sessions on the trade show floor are open to all registered. Significant hands-on product training and user group sessions will also be offered. Registration and hotel reservations are now available. For more information and to register, go to www.wqa-aquatech.com.
Peter J. Censky
Executive Director, WQA