CELEBRATING EXCELLENCE IN WATER RESOURCES MANAGEMENT
IWRA CONGRESS AWARDS
The IWRA Awards recognize outstanding achievements in water resources management, research, and policy, celebrating individuals and organizations that have significantly advanced our understanding and sustainable use of water resources globally.
The awards categories include:
- Crystal Drop Award: Honoring organizations or individuals for their remarkable contributions to the field of water resources management.
- Water Drop Award: Showcasing early-career professionals making exceptional strides in water research and policy.
- Ven Te Chow Memorial Lecture and Award: Recognizing individuals who have made distinguished contributions to water resources science, education, or practice.
At the beginning of 2025, IWRA launched its call for award nominations, inviting the global water community to highlight exemplary achievements and leadership in the field. Following a rigorous review and selection process, IWRA is now delighted to announce the recipients of its three prestigious 2025 awards.
Meet the winners below!
Crystal Drop Award

Claudia Sadoff
Independent Advisor & Board Member
Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS), Pacific Institute
Water Drop Award

Hassan Tolba Aboelnga
Lecturer, Integerated Water Resources Management
Faculty of Spatial Development and Infrastructure Systems, TH Köln, Technology Arts Sciences
Ven Te Chow Memorial Lecture and Award

Cecilia Tortajada
Professor, School of Social and Environmental Sustainability,
University of Glasgow, UK,;
Past President and Vice President of IWRA.
At the XIX World Water Congress in Marrakech, these prestigious awardees will be honoured for their innovative approaches, impactful research, and exemplary leadership within the water sector.
Click here to learn more about the winners.
- Water International Best Paper Awards: Recognizing high-quality research published in IWRA’s official journal, Water International. Stay tuned for more information.
OTHER SPECIAL AWARDS
The Best Scientific Contribution Award: As part of the XIX edition of the World Water Congress, a Best Scientific Contribution Award will be presented to recognize outstanding presentations or posters that demonstrate scientific excellence, innovation, and relevance to pressing global water issues. This award aims to encourage high-quality academic and applied research, as well as innovative projects that advance knowledge and support sustainable water management practices worldwide. All accepted contributions will be evaluated by the International Scientific Committee based on originality, methodology, and potential impact.