Be Curious 2026 - Too Much Water...or Not Enough?

Researchers from water@leeds are taking part in this year’s Be Curious festival, inviting visitors to explore the challenges and possibilities of living with water in a changing climate.

Join us on Saturday 16 May, 10am–4pm, for a free, family-friendly event that brings cutting-edge water research to life.

Too Much Water or Not Enough?

Take part in an engaging, hands-on activity that invites visitors of all ages to think about how water shapes our daily lives—now and in the future.

Developed by the water@leeds Next Water Chapter Initiative team led by Dr Paul Hutchings and Dr Ruth Sylvester, the installation features three imaginative “future homes,” each exploring a different water scenario:

• 🏠 WET House – Adapting to increased flooding
• 🏠 DRY House – Living with water scarcity and drought
• 🏠 MAD House – Managing water independently at home

Visitors can sort everyday objects, test ideas, and explore practical ways to live well under different water conditions. The activity is designed to spark conversation, raise awareness, and capture public views on water resilience.

Engaging Communities Across Yorkshire

This water focussed activity is part of the water@leeds Next Water Chapter Initiative which aims to brings together communities, water sector partners, and stakeholders to explore alternative water futures for Yorkshire—helping to shape more informed, inclusive approaches to managing water in the decades ahead.

Join the Conversation

water@leeds encourages everyone to get involved, share their ideas, and help shape the future of water in Yorkshire.

“We’re excited to connect with local communities and hear their perspectives on how we can respond to both water scarcity and flooding.”
— Dr Paul Hutchings

👉 Book your free tickets:  Be Curious | University of Leeds