Symposium

The Water Efficiency & Conservation Symposium is the premier event bringing together water practitioners across North America and beyond for three days of interactive sessions, peer-to-peer collaboration, and meaningful networking opportunities.

2027 Dates: August 3-5

Join Us in Chicago

Attendees enjoy a dynamic program of presentations, panels, and roundtables focused on actionable research, peer connections, and hands-on learning tailored to water-efficiency and conservation professionals.

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2026 in Review—and a Look Ahead to 2027

This August, water-efficiency professionals representing 120 organizations gathered in Chicago for our 4th Annual Water Efficiency & Conservation Symposium.

Attendees joined from 23 states, Washington, D.C., Canada, and Australia – bringing perspectives from water providers, government agencies, nonprofits, industry partners, consultants, manufacturers, and more.

Explore what made the 2026 Symposium memorable and get a preview of what’s ahead for 2027.

2026 Symposium Attendees:

To request access to the Symposium Session decks and event photography email membership@a4we.org.

It’s All About Connections

AWE intentionally creates opportunities to connect around common challenges, diverse perspectives, shared meals, and a good laugh. Whether gathering over dinner or comparing notes between sessions, attendees consistently tell us that the relationships they build at the Symposium are among its most valuable outcomes.

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Content That Delivers Actionable Takeaways

Symposium sessions tackle the timely and pressing questions facing water-efficiency professionals, offering practical insights attendees can apply in their own communities and organizations.

The 2026 program explored the challenges, innovations, and emerging opportunities shaping the future of water efficiency.

Featured sessions included:

Advancing Equity and Affordability in Water Efficiency Programs
A Broader View: Regional & State Planning for a Resilient Water Future
Reuse, Energy, and Data Centers, Oh My! Creative Approaches to Emerging Water Users

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Unique Opportunities to Expand Your Reach

The Symposium offers organizations and companies meaningful opportunities to champion water efficiency while expanding their reach. Rather than a traditional exhibit hall, AWE prioritizes brand visibility and genuine engagement with attendees—creating space for new relationships and collaboration across industry sectors.

Reach out to membership@a4we.org to learn about getting involved.

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Celebrating Water Efficiency

AWE is proud to recognize the individuals and organizations advancing water efficiency through innovation, leadership, and collaboration. Meet the 2026 award recipients who we honored in person at the Symposium and learn how to nominate an outstanding individual or organization for a future AWE award.

Explore the AWE Awards

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WHAT PEOPLE ARE SAYING

“Connecting with diverse stakeholders passionate about water efficiency and conservation – from utilities and NGOs to academia and industry – at the Symposium was truly enlightening. It’s clear that through collaboration, partnerships, and innovation, we’re shaping a bright future for water!”

Erica Pinto

Design for Sustainability Engineer, Whirlpool Corporation

“Thank you, Alliance for Water Efficiency, for hosting a fantastic 2nd annual Water Efficiency & Conservation Symposium! I’m in AWE of the incredible work being done in this space to make our communities more resilient. I love the energy of being with people who share a passion for developing and delivering extraordinary conservation solutions. And Chicago is a delightful backdrop to host this coveted time together.

Candice Rupprecht

Water Conservation Manager, Tucson Water, City of Tucson

“Attending this Symposium was great — so much excellent information and networking opportunity with the cream of the crop! Thanks to all at AWE for the hard work in putting the symposium together.”