Innovation, Collaboration and a Global Industry Perspective
Our team returned from the 2026 edition of the Water Loss conference in Rio de Janeiro with new connections, fresh ideas, and a broader perspective on the direction of the global water industry.
Widely recognised as the most important international event in the field of water loss management, this year's edition was also the largest ever organised. It brought together around 800 delegates from more than 60 nationalities for four days of workshops, presentations, technical discussions and networking opportunities.
Representing Crowder Consulting in Rio
Tom Crowder, Seamus Levin, Magui Faustino, Francisco Piedade and Courtney Carey represented the company throughout the conference.
They took part in technical sessions, presented our work, and engaged with water utilities, technology providers, and industry specialists from across the globe.
A Truly Global Event
The scale and diversity of Water Loss 2026 reflected how rapidly the water industry is evolving. It also showed how central water loss management has become to wider discussions around climate resilience, sustainability, and operational performance.
Conference Scale and Format
The conference programme featured almost 100 presentations across three simultaneous technical streams. Every session was supported by live Portuguese and English translation, making the content accessible to a truly international audience.
Key Topics Across the Water Industry
Presentations spanned the full breadth of modern water network management. Topics included:
- AI and digital twins
- Satellite leak detection
- Hydraulic modelling
- Smart metering
- Pressure management
- Carbon reduction
- Performance-based contracts
Converting Water Loss into Climate Action
A recurring theme throughout the event was the conference motto: "Converting Water Loss into Climate Action".
It highlighted the growing recognition that leakage reduction is not only a technical challenge, but an environmental and societal one too.
Digitalisation and Advanced Analytics in Network Management
One of the clearest trends was the growing importance of digitalisation and advanced analytics in water network management.
Across numerous presentations, water utilities and technology providers showed how AI, predictive analytics, machine learning, GIS integration, and smart monitoring are becoming fundamental tools. Together, they are reshaping modern leakage detection and management strategies.
Crowder Consulting on the Exhibition Floor
Throughout the event, our stand remained constantly busy. We welcomed delegates speaking a multitude of languages and created opportunities for discussions with both existing contacts and potential new business partners.
Showcasing Our Digital Tools for Water Networks
Visitors to the stand were introduced to the Netbase Enterprise System, along with our digital tools NetOps and NetAlytics.
Many conversations naturally focused on data and analytics. The shared goal was clear: to help water utilities improve operational decision-making and leakage performance across the water supply and distribution network.
Coordinating the Conversations
Magui and Courtney helped coordinate the activity around the stand throughout the conference. They welcomed delegates and supported the many conversations that took place around our work and digital solutions.
Contributing to the Technical Programme
We were proud to contribute directly to the technical programme. Our team took part through several presentations and active participation within the wider Water Loss community.
Trunk Mains Leakage in Focus
A particularly noticeable trend this year was the increase in presentations dedicated to trunk mains leakage. This reflects both its complexity and its growing importance for water utilities worldwide.
Several sessions explored specialist technologies. These included fibre sensing, transmission mains monitoring, insertion flowmeters, and predictive control strategies.
The Netconn Project with Thames Water
Within this context, Francisco and Seamus presented our work on the Netconn project with Thames Water and its connection with the London Ring Main.
Their presentation generated strong interest from delegates. It also offered valuable practical insight into leakage investigation and flow balance analysis on one of the world's most complex trunk main systems.
Smarter Leakage Analysis at DMA Level
At the distribution level, another strong theme was the need for smarter leakage assessment and more accurate interpretation of DMA behaviour.
Tom's presentation on our new Mass Balance tool contributed directly to this discussion. It showed how utilities can better distinguish real leakage from other operational anomalies and measurement issues within DMAs, helping to reduce non-revenue water.
Chairing Smart Water Networks Discussions
The programme also highlighted our growing involvement within the international water loss community. Tom chaired one of the technical sessions, focused on Smart Water Networks and relevant IT solutions.
Networking Beyond the Conference Hall
Beyond the technical sessions, Water Loss 2026 provided excellent opportunities for relationship building and knowledge sharing in more informal settings.
The Women's Networking Evening
Magui and Courtney attended the Women's Networking Evening, which gathered around 50 delegates. The smaller, more personal setting created the opportunity for in-depth conversations and the sharing of professional experiences.
Growing Representation in the Water Industry
This year's conference also marked a notable milestone in representation. Women accounted for approximately one quarter of all delegates, the highest proportion the event has seen to date.
Rio de Janeiro as a Backdrop
The location itself added greatly to the atmosphere. Set in the iconic city of Rio de Janeiro, the conference allowed delegates to continue conversations and strengthen connections in restaurants, cafés, and seaside venues overlooking the Atlantic Ocean.
Looking Ahead
Water Loss 2026 proved to be an outstanding event for learning, sharing knowledge, and strengthening international partnerships.
From trunk mains leakage investigations to AI-driven analytics and smarter water balances, the conference showcased both the complexity of today's challenges and the exciting opportunities emerging across the sector.
We are proud to have contributed to these important discussions. We look forward to continuing to work alongside water utilities and partners worldwide to support more efficient, resilient, and sustainable water networks.
Thank You to the Organisers
A huge thank you to the organisers of the IWA Water Loss Conference 2026 Rio and ABES Saneamento for hosting such a fantastic event.
Our team had an incredible experience. We truly appreciated the warm welcome, the excellent organisation, and the opportunity to connect with so many professionals from across the industry.
We're already looking forward to the next Water Loss Conference in 2028, hosted by Nama Water Services.