In 2010, in response to the formidable and unprecedented water-related challenges facing South Africa, Stellenbosch University Water Institute (SUWI) was established in order to undertake multi-disciplinary water research.

SUWI draws from the fundamental and goal-directed research undertaken by some of the most experienced scientists at our institution. Our research is conducted in collaboration with both industry and government, in order to solve water related challenges, and to provide technology transfer and to develop human capital resources.

Simply put, we need a 'Blue Revolution,' the water equivalent of the 'Green Revolution,' referring to the sustainable management of water resources in an effort to achieve global water security for both crop irrigation and human consumption.

We need to:

• Address the serious challenges related to the rising demand for potable water.
  
• Solve the serious health problems associated with contaminated water supplies, and at the same time address environmental problems and concerns about economic development and growth.
  

​Everyone will have to accept responsibility in this regard at every level of society from elected officials and company leaders to individual households. Political will and decisions will need to be informed by knowledge of the relevant underlying science and available technologies.​​