Is the country’s leading research institution, with a long-standing tradition of scientific excellence and public service. It brings together more than 40 researchers from 23 academic units through the Red GUIAS (Water, Sanitation and Integrated Water Resources Management Research Network), which articulates interdisciplinary research and action projects in water supply, wastewater sanitation, and integrated water resources management. The University offers undergraduate and graduate programs across multiple faculties related to water sciences, including Microbiology, Civil Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Geology, Biology, and Public Health. Graduate-level studies include master’s and doctoral programs in Environmental Health, Water Sciences, and Environmental Law, among others. The UCR actively engages in scientific outreach through national symposia, training programs, and education initiatives. Research topics include emerging contaminants, microbial water quality, climate change, and community-based water protection. The University also contributes to public policy through participation in national and international platforms on water legislation, sustainable governance, and circular economy practices.

Is recognized for its focus on social sciences, environmental studies, and strong community outreach programs in areas of sustainable development, across 13 research institutes. UNA´s Faculty of Earth and Ocean Sciences departments and institutes conduct research in environmental sciences such as human and ecological risk of water pollution, land use impacts on water quality and availability, water ecosystem conservation and restoration. Also, the Faculty of Exact Sciences, and other departments have an academic graduate and postgraduate offer on Hydrology and Biological Sciences, that performs investigations on hydrological engineering, climate change impacts on water availability, harmful algal blooms, water security, and groundwater pollution tracking, among others. The different initiatives are articulated by an Interdisciplinary Program in Water Research and Management and by the Vice-Rector of Research. The University promotes discussion between academia, public and private sectors in topics at national and international level in sustainability as part of its outreach programs.

Is a key player in advanced research and innovation in water conservation and environmental protection. With a broad academic offering—22 undergraduate degrees and 14 graduate programs—TEC leads interdisciplinary projects addressing critical challenges such as water resource management, water quality, and aquatic ecosystem protection. The institution is committed to generating cutting-edge scientific and technological solutions, including the development of tools to improve water governance and mitigate the impacts of climate change. Its 11 research centers foster strong collaboration between academia, public institutions, and private industry, actively contributing to policy development and the creation of sustainable water management models at both national and international levels. Through its integrated and forward-thinking approach, TEC is advancing practical, science-based solutions to address pressing global environmental challenges and promote long-term sustainability.

In addition, the event will involve the Costa Rican Institute of Aqueducts and Sewage (AyA), the national authority responsible for water quality regulation and sanitation services. The National Water Laboratory, which is part of AyA, has as its mission to contribute to the improvement of the health and quality of life of Costa Ricans by developing monitoring and control programs for water quality in its various uses. It also encourages research related to water, the environment, and health, ensuring that both the public and private sectors can rely on accurate data for effective water management and policymaking.