H2O Breakfast 2018 Keynote Sandra Postel

Sandra Postel, founder and director of the Global Water Policy Project, is recognized as one of the world’s most respected authorities on freshwater issues and hailed for her “inspiring, innovative and practical approach” to promoting the preservation and sustainable use of Earth’s fresh water.

Her latest book, Replenish, takes readers on a world tour of water projects that work with nature’s rhythms. The result is insightful and thought-provoking commentary for sustaining a growing population, ecological functions, and cultural norms in the 21st century.

Replenish goes far beyond cataloging the costs and benefits of 20^th Century water engineering feats such as dams, canals, and treatment plants. Postel’s main focus is on a new era of innovation. She explores how cities, farmers, businesses and conservationists are partnering to rejuvenate watersheds and floodplains, and replenish rivers, groundwater and soils.

In 2009, Postel was appointed Freshwater Fellow of the National Geographic Society, where, for six years, she spearheaded the Society’s freshwater initiative. A frequent conference speaker and lecturer, she has appeared regularly on radio, television, and in films. Her first book, Last Oasis, was the basis of a PBS documentary.

Postel studied geology at Wittenberg University, and resource economics and policy at Duke University. A Pew Scholar in Conservation and the Environment, Postel has received four honorary doctor of science degrees and in 2002 was awarded the “Scientific American 50” for her contributions to water policy.