Hon. Bruno Pigott Joins The International Desalination And Reuse Association (IDRA) As Special Advisor

Renowned PFAS Expert to Advise on Desalination and Reuse Standards Ahead of Reykjavik Summit and beyond

The International Desalination and Reuse Association (IDRA) has appointed Hon. Bruno Pigott, former Acting Assistant Administrator for Water at the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), as a Special Advisor. Pigott’s appointment brings decades of expertise in environmental regulation and water policy to the organization and reinforces its commitment to advancing global water sustainability through innovative solutions and collaborative leadership.

During his tenure at the EPA, Pigott was instrumental in shaping federal wastewater and drinking water regulations, including efforts to address PFAS contamination and strengthen water quality standards. Prior to the EPA, he led a decorated 21-year career at the Indiana Department of Environmental Management, culminating in his role as Commissioner. His new role at IDRA will focus on advancing desalination and water reuse initiatives, reinforcing the organization’s push for innovative solutions to water scarcity.

“We are honored to welcome Bruno Pigott as a Special Advisor,” said IDRA President Jon Freedman. “His extensive background in environmental policy and leadership will be invaluable in guiding our strategic initiatives and fostering global partnerships to address pressing water challenges.”

Pigott said he was eager to contribute to IDRA’s mission. “Sustainable water solutions require a collective effort,” he said. “IDRA’s commitment to sustainable water management aligns with my passion for advancing innovative solutions that benefit communities worldwide. I look forward to supporting the organization’s initiatives and helping to advance policies and technologies that benefit communities worldwide.”

As Special Advisor, Pigott will play a key role in shaping IDRA’s strategic projects, including the upcoming IDRA Reykjavik Summit on Water and Climate Change and the IDRA World Congress 2026. His involvement is expected to strengthen IDRA’s influence in the global water sector, underscoring the need for coordinated action in tackling water challenges.

The International Desalination and Reuse Association (IDRA) is the leading hub for the global desalination and water reuse community. As a non-profit and apolitical organization, IDRA connects members across more than 60 countries, supported by 15 affiliate members and additional strategic partner organizations that span regional and national levels.

For more information about IDRA and its initiatives, visit idrawater.org.

About IDRA
IDRA is a global organization connecting the desalination and water reuse community since 1973. With members in over 60 countries, we serve as a platform for professionals from various sectors, including science, engineering, government, and academia. (IDRA) is a U.S.-based (Delaware) non-profit 501(c)(6) organization and a recognized NGO with consultative status under the United Nations Economic and Social Council (UN ECOSOC). As a proud partner of the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) and its WASAG Global Framework on Water Scarcity in Agriculture Initiative, IDRA also holds official status with the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), which was granted in November 2024.

We are deeply committed to advancing the United Nations Water Action Agenda by fostering the development of technical solutions through research and innovation, capacity building, and pioneering regulatory frameworks. IDRA promotes sustainable project models and advocates for the seamless integration of desalination and water reuse into existing Integrated Water Resources Management (IWRM) systems, supporting a more water-resilient and sustainable future.

Our commitment as a UN-recognized NGO is to share knowledge of technical solutions to address the ever-growing demand for clean water for all.