MWRD joins Agence de l’Eau Seine Normandie to advance global water and climate resilience in Paris

A shared commitment to water stewardship brought together leading scientists, policymakers and utility experts from across the world recently to focus on the future of global water resilience. The Metropolitan Water Reclamation District of Greater Chicago (MWRD) participated in the 3rd Water Research and Innovation Workshop of the Megacities Alliance for Water and Climate (MAWAC), held in Paris, France.

The workshop convened along the historic Seine River, a waterway with deep environmental and cultural significance for Paris, much like the Chicago River does for the City of Chicago. Representing the MWRD was Principal Environmental Scientist Dr. Kuldip Kumar, who joined international water leaders to exchange strategies on climate adaptation, strengthen global partnerships and explore how major rivers like the Seine and the Chicago River can support urban renewal, recreation and long-term environmental stewardship.

Hosted by Agence de l'Eau Seine Normandie, the event welcomed senior officials and water experts from Paris, Mexico City, New York, Los Angeles, London and Chicago. Conversations focused on shared challenges facing large cities, including climate-driven extreme weather, aging infrastructure and the increasing demand for safe, reliable and sustainable water services. Participants emphasized the importance of basin-scale management, coordinated governance and innovative technologies to address these challenges.

A highlight of the workshop was Paris' presentation on its major water quality investments ahead of the 2024 Summer Olympic Games. The city completed more than $1.63 billion in infrastructure upgrades to reduce combined sewer overflows, modernize its sewer network and implement real-time microbial monitoring to make open-water swimming in the Seine a reality.

These international efforts mirror Chicago's own water quality advancements. The MWRD continues to invest in sustainable infrastructure such as the Tunnel and Reservoir Plan (TARP), which captures stormwater and reduces combined sewer overflows and upgrades to wastewater treatment plants. The MWRD has expanded the use of green infrastructure as well, contributing to the transformation of the Chicago River from an industrial waterway into a revitalized natural resource.

"Chicago and Paris share a deep connection through the rivers that shape our cities, and this workshop reminded us how powerful that connection can be," said MWRD President Kari K. Steele. "By learning from the progress made along the Seine River and sharing our own work on the Chicago River, we strengthen our ability to protect our communities, adapt to a changing climate, and build a future where clean and resilient waterways are central to urban life. International collaboration is essential, and the MWRD is proud to contribute to this global effort."

Technical sessions throughout the workshop explored topics including artificial intelligence and digital tools for water management, cybersecurity, extreme-weather preparedness and circular water economy strategies.

"International collaboration is essential as megacities confront the realities of climate change," said Dr. Kumar. "The lessons shared in Paris will help inform MWRD's ongoing work to strengthen water quality, enhance resilience and support sustainability for the Chicago region."

Delegates also participated in site visits, including to the Austerlitz non-potable water production plant, part of Paris' extensive dual-water system and the Bassée Flood Control Project, a large-scale retention basin designed to reduce downstream flooding while restoring natural ecosystems.