GWF and California's San Bernardino Valley College are setting standards for sustainable water management

Just in time for World Water Week in Stockholm, where international leaders, policymakers and innovators discuss the most pressing global water challenges, the San Bernardino Valley College (SBVC) is making history: The university in California is the first educational institution worldwide to receive certification from the Alliance for Water Stewardship (AWS).

This certification underscores the SBVC's commitment to responsible water management on campus and to preparing its students for careers in water management, a crucial field for California's future. This milestone was made possible through a strategic partnership with GWF, a leading provider of measurement technology and system solutions for the sustainable management of energy and water.

Background: Water scarcity in California

California has been struggling with severe water insecurity for years – caused by falling groundwater levels, aging infrastructure, climate change, and increasing pollution. According to the State Water Board, approximately 60% of the state's water supply comes from groundwater. Sustainable water management and investment in modern infrastructure are therefore crucial.

San Bernardino County in Southern California, with over two million inhabitants, is affected by droughts and dwindling water resources. San Bernardino Valley College, as the region's leading educational institution, makes a significant contribution to developing professionals in the fields of sustainability, water, science, technology, business, health, and the arts.

“The AWS Standard certification demonstrates our commitment to responsible water management on campus. We want to lead by example in a region heavily impacted by water scarcity. Sustainability is a responsibility that the San Bernardino Community College District takes seriously – for our students and our community.” – Diana Z. Rodriguez, Chancellor, SBCCD

Strategic partnership for innovation

SBVC and GWF have established a strategic partnership to advance innovative solutions for the campus and the region. Through its expertise in water accounting, water infrastructure, measurement technology, and data transmission GWF enables SBVC to conduct a comprehensive analysis of water consumption and water risks on campus. With additional support from Noverram, an internationally recognized consulting firm for water and sustainability projects, SBVC was able to compile detailed data on its own water balance and successfully complete the certification process according to the international AWS standard.

“With our high-precision sensor and data technologies, we provide the SBVC with detailed insights into water consumption, thus enabling the development of targeted savings strategies. The collaboration between GWF, SBVC and Noverram is an example of how partnerships can bring about sustainable change.” – Florian Strasser, CEO, GWF

New study programs in the field of water management

The AWS certification complements the SBVC's new Bachelor's program in Water Resources Management, which equips students with skills in policy, law, and technology to address the growing challenges of water scarcity and quality in California and beyond.

"Water management is one of California's key challenges. With this certification and our new Bachelor's degree program in Water Resources Management, we are not only reducing our environmental footprint, but also preparing our students for careers that will secure the future of our state." – Gilbert J. Contreras, President, SBVC