Technical research and innovation services

Turning science into solutions

Water Research Centre (WRc) is an independent centre of excellence for innovation and growth that will boast 100 years of delivering leading, technical research and innovation services to the global water, waste management and energy sectors in 2027. Our work as consultants and service providers in the water, waste and environmental sectors, supports the achievement of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.

We are focused on doing the right thing – protecting the natural environment, reducing our carbon footprint and those of our clients and ensuring safe, healthy populations and habitats. This is achieved through demonstrating our core values that underpin our trusted innovative solutions with technical excellence and independence of thought.

We help you unlock solutions to the challenges you face

Whatever the scale, wherever the location, we use our technical expertise, experience and resources to develop sustainable solutions to equip you to maximise value.

Strategy and optimisation

Strategy and optimisation

We utilise strategies to optimise water efficiency to build long-term resilience and sustainable objectives.

Operational standards and guidance

Operational standards and guidance

We provide you with forward-thinking standards and guidance resources recognised by industry-leading companies and organisations.

Research, development and innovation

Research, development and innovation

We develop applied research, test and accredit new technologies and work with clients, regulators and industries on solutions that make a difference.

Inspection, testing and certification

Inspection, testing and certification

Supporting your knowledge to ensure your assets, technology facilities and practices are compliant and efficient. 

Digital and analytics

Digital and analytics

Turn complex data into actionable intelligence. We combine data science, GIS and hydraulic modelling to support water network decision-making.

Habitat restoration

Habitat restoration

We restore natural habitats by supporting biodiversity and enhancing sustainable practices.

Environmental and regulatory compliance

Environmental and regulatory compliance

We’re experts in waste regulation and understanding the operational requirements associated with waste processing, treatment and recycling facilities.

Focused on your industry

For businesses ranging from sole traders to multinational corporations, we deliver a consistent and high-quality consultancy approach tailored to your requirements and priorities.

Utilities

Government and regulators

Consultancy partners and contractors

Technology providers

Waste treatment and recycling

Manufacturing and industry

The latest from WRc

What will UK drinking water treatment look like in 2050? News

What will UK drinking water treatment look like in 2050?

17 September 2026

Scotland’s only HAR1 hydrogen project provides blueprint for future hydrogen developments News

Scotland’s only HAR1 hydrogen project provides blueprint for future hydrogen developments

14 September 2026

Sealing our sewers – tackling discharges from groundwater surcharged sewers News

Sealing our sewers – tackling discharges from groundwater surcharged sewers

13 August 2026

Beyond AMP8: Preparing the ground for Water Efficiency in AMP9 News

Beyond AMP8: Preparing the ground for Water Efficiency in AMP9

5 August 2026

Bridging the POPs capacity gap News

Bridging the POPs capacity gap

1 August 2026

Collaboration and innovation drive Irish water sector climate change impacts project News

Collaboration and innovation drive Irish water sector climate change impacts project

30 July 2026

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