Managing Rain Better Where It Lands: A Conversation with Matt Wheeldon from Wessex Water

In the dynamic world of water management, innovative approaches to old problems can catalyze significant change. In our latest episode of Exec Exchange, Piers Clark sits down with Matt Wheeldon, the Infrastructure Development Director at Wessex Water, to delve into an evolving philosophy: managing rain better where it lands rather than at the end of a pipe.

A Journey through Water Management

The podcast kicks off with Matt sharing his path towards becoming the Infrastructure Development Director at Wessex Water. With a civil engineering background and a career embedded in consultancy and various roles across Wessex Water, Matt’s journey is characterized by a passion for addressing stormwater management and promoting sustainable practices.

Understanding Wessex Water

Before diving into the complexities of stormwater management, it’s crucial to understand the operational scope of Wessex Water. Serving the southwest of England, Wessex Water operates with a dual focus on water supply and wastewater management, boasting approximately 2.9 million waste customers and 1.3 million supply customers. Yet, this abundance of chalk reservoirs is, as Matt articulates, both a “blessing and a curse.”

The Stormwater Challenge

The heart of the conversation reveals the pressing issue of storm overflows, a challenge amplified by the UK’s climate pattern, which alternates between excessive rainfall and periods of drought. Matt emphasizes a paradigm shift — focusing on source control for rainwater, handling the issue “where it lands.” This narrative challenges the traditional reactive approach and advocates for capturing and using rainwater responsibly while addressing systemic issues in urban planning and infrastructure.

The Ethos of Rainwater Management

Matt’s ethos on rainwater management is simple yet effective: consider rain as a valuable resource and manage it efficiently from the point of impact. This approach not only tackles immediate overflow issues but also promises long-term sustainability and environmental conservation without relying on problematic centralized solutions.

Building a Sustainable Future

The discussion encompasses cultural and legislative shifts needed to improve rainwater management practices. Encouragingly, Matt notes the growing acceptance of his principles by government bodies and environmental organizations alike, citing influential voices joining the chorus of change.

Looking Forward

The future looks promising as the dialogue around source-controlled solutions gains momentum. Legislative reforms are underway, and Matt is enthusiastic about upcoming research to further validate the economic and ecological benefits of his strategy. His engagement extends globally, as evidenced by his planned participation in the World Water Congress in Glasgow, aiming to foster international collaboration and inspire further innovation.

Reflections and Advice

Closing the podcast, Piers prompts Matt to reflect on his career and share advice for his younger self. A poignant sentiment emerges: an appreciation for the basics of accessible clean water and sanitation, a societal privilege that many take for granted.

Conclusion

In a world where progressive thinking poses as the bedrock for addressing environmental challenges, Matt Wheeldon’s insights into proactive rainwater management offer a beacon of hope. As we strive towards sustainable futures, it’s crucial to harness dialogues like these, transforming words into actionable change.

Thank you for joining The Exec Exchange continue to question, share, and stay safe in the journey ahead.