In a powerful demonstration of global solidarity and innovation in the face of environmental challenges, Water and Waste Management (WWM) International, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, hosted an impactful celebration of World Water Day on March 23 in Schaumburg. The event was a convergence of minds, missions, and groundbreaking discussions on sustainable water solutions, drawing speakers and participants from across the globe.

Malathi Damaraju served as Master of Ceremonies. The keynote was delivered by a roster of distinguished guests including Metropolitan Water Reclamation District of Greater Chicago (MWRD) Vice President and Chairperson of WWM Patricia Theresa Flynn, State Representative Anna Moeller (43rd District); Margo Markopoulos, Director of the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity who presented on state incentives for businesses; and Mrs. Natnapang Dy, Consul General at the Thailand Consulate in Chicago.

Highlights of the day included a diverse array of presentations addressing urgent environmental and water-related issues:

• Christine Wood of Donohue & Associates delved into the pressing issue of microplastics in our water systems.
• Dr. Saeeda, founder of Water Wish NFP, shared insights into transformative water projects across African nations.
• Thanet Natisri's discussion on the innovative Ground Water Bank project in Thailand offered a pioneering approach to water conservation.
• Thai Deputy Consul-General Natapang Damrongsoontornchai contributed to the “Water for Peace” seminar, underscoring the vital link between water management and global harmony.
• USKIDS4WATER introduced several initiatives, showcasing their commitment to addressing water scarcity.
• Sam Pappu, MWRD Senior Electrical Engineer and President of WWM, provided an overview of WWM's recent activities, highlighting the organization's ongoing commitment to water and waste management excellence.

The organizational team for this event was comprised of MWRD staff including Senior Civil Engineer Khaja Moinuddin and Assistant Director of Maintenance and Operations Pinakin Desai, along with Principal Environmental Scientist Dr. Kuldip Kumar. Their efforts were complemented by Chetan Kale, Founder & CEO of KaleTech, LLC, various MWRD retirees and environment activists.

The event was sponsored by SEL, Bharathi Theertha, and India Hub, illustrating a united front in the pursuit of sustainable environmental solutions.

Read more information about the event