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Specialist Groups and Clusters

Specialist Groups:
Connecting leaders, bridging science and practice

IWA's 51+ thematic Specialist Groups (SG) are one of the main ways for like-minded IWA members to network and share knowledge. Bringing together leading researchers and practitioners, they form important engines for scientific and technical content development that drives innovations in the water sector. Spread across IWA’s membership in more than 140 countries, they are an effective means of international networking, sharing information and skills, and making professional and business contacts.

Programme Detail

What are Specialist Groups?

IWA Specialist Groups (SGs) cover a wide range of water-related topics and serve as key mechanisms for like-minded members to network, share knowledge, and collaborate on solutions to global water challenges. Each SG is self-managed and operates in a way that best suits its focus area and community, guided by internal rules and a constitution. These frameworks are supported by a Partnership Agreement with IWA, which outlines mutual commitments rather than rigid operational rules. With access to 51 Specialist Groups on IWA ConnectPlus, members can tailor their engagement by choosing groups that best align with their knowledge areas, passions, or goals in the water sector.

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IWA’s 51 Specialist Groups

Specialist Group Clusters

IWA Specialist Groups work on specific topics or in well-defined areas, sharing in-depth knowledge among group members on that topic. IWA Cluster can be formed to facilitate systematic “conversations” extending across IWA Specialist Groups. Clusters also provide a way to connect with partners, including those working beyond the water sector – such as the International Society of Microbial Ecology. IWA’s flexible approach allows clusters to be tightly defined or to be based on looser cooperation, such as bringing together closely related Specialist Groups to share plans and experience, and to foster cooperation and joint activities. The topics and scopes of IWA’s Clusters are reviewed every five-year to ensure their focus remains relevant. There are currently four clusters: the Wastewater-based Epidemiological Surveillance Cluster, the Bio Cluster, the Resource Recovery Cluster and the Nature-based solutions for climate-resilient Water and Sanitation management.

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Task Groups

Task groups are formed to further understanding of the solutions available to address global water challenges. They perform a defined task over a specific period of time. This includes the production of IWA Scientific and Technical Reports, Manuals of Best Practice and Position Papers that influence policy and regulation. Participation in a Task Group is by invitation. Task Groups cross the traditional boundaries between water science and practice, building upon the strengths of both sides to find solutions for complex water challenges. These solutions include exploring new technologies, and changing the way we approach water, wastewater and sanitation challenges. Water professionals wanting to address these issues will benefit from the support they receive by being a member of IWA.

The Global Trends Report

Global Trends and Challenges in Water Science, Research and Management The IWA Compendium showcases the expertise of IWA’s Specialist Groups (SGs) and Clusters by highlighting key innovations, trends, and challenges in global water science, research, and management. Since its first edition in 2012, the Compendium has evolved into a vital resource for water professionals worldwide, providing insights across technical, scientific, and integrated approaches. The upcoming 4th edition, launching at the 2026 World Water Congress in Glasgow, will continue this tradition by focusing on cross-cutting innovations aligned with multiple UN Sustainable Development Goals, including clean water and sanitation, gender equality, climate action, and sustainable cities. This edition invites all SGs and Clusters to contribute fresh perspectives that will shape the future of water management, policy, and research globally.

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SG Leaders Forum

The Specialist Group (SG) Leaders Forum is a key platform that brings together SG Leaders (SG Chairs, Secretaries, and Vice-Chairs) to connect face-to-face with one another and with the IWA Secretariat. Organised during IWA’s flagship events, the Forum provides a unique space to share knowledge, align with IWA’s strategic goals, and plan for the future of water. At the 2022 SG Leaders Forum in Copenhagen and the 2024 edition in Toronto, SG Leaders exchanged experiences on group management, member engagement, and collaboration across IWA Communities. The Forums also offered the opportunity to engage in strategic discussions and contribute to new initiatives that address global water challenges. These Forums continue to play a vital role in strengthening the impact of IWA’s Specialist Groups and their contribution to the water sector. For the latest updates and discussions, join the SG Leaders Forum group on IWA ConnectPlus exclusively available to SG Leaders.

Hear from the Specialist Groups members

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Reflecting on our 14th IWA International Conference on Water Reclamation and Reuse this last March, it is clear the need for international opportunities to collaborate and share information on critical research, policy and implementation strategies is vast.

Melissa L. Meeker

Chair of the IWA SG on Water Reuse

My experience leading the IWA Specialist Group on Sanitation and Water Management in LMICs has reinforced my belief in the importance of locally grounded innovation, multidisciplinary collaboration, and inclusive dialogue.

Luiza C Campos

Chair of the IWA SG on Sanitation and Water Management in LMICs

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Specialist Groups on ConnectPlus

Engage with 51 SGs on ConnectPlus

IWA’s ConnectPlus member platform is a vital tool for participating in Specialist Groups and more. Engage with SG members, discover opportunities to be part of SG Management Committees, and access exclusive content!

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Need help?

Contact our Senior Officer – Specialist Groups, Conferences and Inclusion

For enquiries about IWA SGs, please contact Rachna Sarkari.

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