November 29, 2012

Israeli Advanced Water Technologies: Cutting Edge Solutions for Global Water Challenges

Co-sponsored by:
George Washington University Law School
Environmental Law Institute
Jewish National Fund
Embassy of Israel in Washington, DC

This event brought together technology, corporate, financial and government experts, and entrepreneurs to discuss opportunities presented by Israeli advanced water technologies, and the keys to accessing financing and unlocking U.S. markets for companies seeking to commercialize their technologies, products, and services.

Topics:

• Climate change, drought, and depletion of surface water and groundwater supplies have been recognized by policy makers and the business community as critical threats to international security and economic growth
• Advanced water technologies are increasingly in demand to meet these water challenges, including "green" water infrastructure, with increased reliance on reclamation and use of grey water; advanced desalination technologies; integrated wastewater and energy production; wave and gravity energy; smart meters, remote sensing and related information technologies; highly efficient fixtures; and drinking water treatment for contaminants of emerging concern
• Israel has emerged as a global leader in developing and commercializing advanced water technologies, with active programs fostering cross-border technology transfers and ventures
• Identifying promising technologies and companies requires a broad understanding of the markets as well as specific technical expertise and knowledge of the commercial dynamics
• International technology transfer mechanisms, joint ventures, technology incubators and other cross-border business partnerships offer important models for growth and competitive success in this sector
• In the U.S., Federal policies have established explicit water use reduction targets and purchase requirements for the Department of Defense and other Federal agencies that are substantial water users, presenting substantial opportunities for water technology providers

Panelists:
Jon Freedman, General Electric Company, Global Leader, Government Relations, Water & Power
Sally Gutierrez, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Director, Water Innovation Technology Cluster
David Hughes, American Water, Water Distribution Infrastructure Lead
Laura Shenkar, Artemis Water Strategy, Principal

Moderators:
Tel Aviv: Jeffrey Karp, ZAG/S&W, Partner, Head of Environment, Energy & Natural Resources Practice; and Eran Ben Dor, ZAG/S&W Partner, Head of Technology Practice
New York: Oded Har-Even, ZAG/S&W, Partner and Managing Director; and Leonard Miller, ZAG/S&W, Of Counsel, Environment, Energy & Natural Resources Practice, Pesticide and BioAgra section leader
Washington, D.C.: James Wrathall, ZAG/S&W, Counsel, Environment, Energy & Natural Resources Practice, Water Resource and Conservation section leader

Objectives:

• Highlight cooperation between the U.S. and Israel in the field of Advanced Water Technologies
• Promote opportunities for investment in Israeli water technologies, relevant to investors and companies seeking investment
• Educate on government and regulatory guidelines for bilateral water technology cooperation
• Connect water technology companies with venture capital and private equity funds and business development consultants