”We need to bring the public and private sides together much more. We depend on each other to strengthen preparedness. That's why FORUM26 is important.”

Andreas Thunberg, CEO of Norrvatten, participates in one of the panels at the Water Industry FORUM26. Here he explains why the meeting between municipal operations and the industry is so crucial for Swedish water supply preparedness.

Why are you participating in FORUM26?

We public sector organisations have too few interfaces with the industry, even though we are very dependent on it. It is the water industry that is responsible for much of the innovation, development and solutions that we as water and sanitation authorities should use. Therefore, we need to meet, describe our needs and discuss how we can strengthen preparedness together.

What issues do the public and private sides need to discuss together?

Many of the practical challenges in a crisis are linked to suppliers. What happens if an important chemical cannot be delivered or if we need spare parts quickly? What stock levels and capacity are there in the private sector? We talk a lot about responsibilities and structures, but much less about the technical supply systems and the capabilities of suppliers.

Why is it important that municipal activities are on FORUM26?

Those responsible for the operations are part of the solution. By participating in the discussion, we can contribute knowledge about our needs and challenges, while also gaining information and finding new forms of collaboration. The public and private sectors need to be involved and solve these issues together.

What expectations do you have for FORUM26?

I hope for good discussions with others who face the same challenges. We are still struggling with these issues and need support in how to act. Hopefully the day will provide a greater understanding of how we can move forward together.

Do you work with water, sanitation, emergency preparedness or socially important activities in a municipality? Then your experiences and perspectives are also needed at FORUM26.

Water Industry FORUM Water industry