The not-for-profit organisation has identified driving research and innovation in “key areas” such as ‘water and agriculture’ and ‘water and cities’ as short term areas for action.
It also aims to develop a catalogue of UK capabilities in water products and services, and to host an international showcase covering the UK’s research and market capabilities.
The chair of the new body is Lord Smith of Finsbury, who expects it to play an important role in promoting both resilience and growth.
He said: “There’s nothing more important than water. With expanding urban concentrations around the world and the growing impacts of climate change, we need to get better at managing water, conserving it, cleaning it, delivering it, and using it.
“That’s where innovation is going to be so important.”
Water minister Dan Rogerson added: “By developing new technologies and driving knowledge and skills, we will be better placed than ever to respond to global challenges.
“I am certain that by working together, the partnership can break down barriers across the industry and set the standards around the world.”
Among the organisations which have expressed support for the initiative are: Severn Trent; British Water; the Met Office; and the Department for the Environment, Food and Rural Affairs.
The group aims to add new members from across the water technology, services and research communities in the near future.