Envision’s Role in the Water Sector

• Hampton Roads Sanitation District, Virginia Beach, VA. Hampton Roads wrote Envision into their Design & Construction Standards: Firms “shall utilize the Institute for Sustainable Infrastructure (ISI) Envision checklist when evaluating and designing projects.” This is a good example of an organization using Envision to influence project design and planning without requiring Envision verification.

• The California Department of Water Resources (DWR). DWR included Goals and Actions related to Envision in their Strategic Plan. Language from Objective 3 – Implement Sustainability Best Practices reads, “By 2026, conduct a complete Envision evaluation of all new infrastructure projects that require an Environmental Impact Report.” Integrating Envision into a strategic plan solidifies an organization’s commitment to using the framework to evaluate project sustainability. 
• KC Water. KC Water has a long-standing commitment to sustainability. The organization developed a Sustainability Playbook that utilizes tiers and project types to prescribe which Envision credits should be reviewed and how far the project should follow the standard Envision process.

Moreover, the reach of Envision extends beyond U.S. borders, with a growing number of international projects. In 2024, nearly half of project registrations were for projects outside the United States.

Envision in Action: Project Examples 

The versatility of the framework is showcased through its diverse portfolio of verified projects. From small-scale environmental restorations to large-scale water treatment facilities, the system has guided projects toward achieving higher levels of sustainability. Platinum-rated projects exemplify the highest standards, often incorporating innovative practices and engaging deeply with local communities to ensure long-term benefits. 

The Benefits of Envision 

For organizations and individuals alike, Envision offers a multitude of benefits: 

For Organizations: 

• Industry-Recognized Framework: Provides a free, credible system to evaluate and enhance sustainability. 

• Improved Stakeholder Engagement: Fosters better communication and collaboration with communities and stakeholders. 

• Streamlined Processes: Supports better project management and regulatory compliance. 

• Cost Savings: Identifies opportunities to reduce costs through sustainable practices. 

• Enhanced Benchmarking: Helps organizations measure and improve their sustainability performance over time. 

For Individuals Earning the Envision Sustainability Professional (ENV SP) Credential:  

• Professional Growth: Positions professionals as leaders in sustainability within their organizations. 

• Skill Development: Offers training and credentialing to enhance expertise. 

• Commitment to Sustainability: Demonstrates dedication to creating a positive environmental impact. 

For information on becoming an ENV SP, visit: Envision Sustainability Professional (ENV SP) – Institute for Sustainable Infrastructure 

What the Experts Say 

The transformative impact of Envision is echoed by professionals across the industry. Here are some testimonials from the water sector: 

• “Envision goes beyond the basic efforts of project management and development into areas that benefit the community in a holistic way.” — Dave Koster, General Manager, Holland Board of Public Works. 

• “Envision is very holistic. We found, for example, that no other rating system captured and gave credit for work that we do with the community and stakeholders, or the benefits of that work.” — Heidi Sowell, Sustainability Project Lead, King County Wastewater Treatment Division. 

• “Using the Envision certification process has helped the City become a better fiscal, social, and environmental steward.” — Max Kirschbaum, Public Works and Utilities Director, City of Westminster. 

Call to Action 

While the Envision framework and ISI already have the attention of a lot of water sector infrastructure owners, there is significant room for growth of the use of Envision across all sizes of utilities. Many of the largest utility companies in the US are not yet aware of Envision and the benefits it would bring to their projects and how it might align with strategic goals. Since Envision is applicable to all project sizes, the same can be said of small and medium size utilities as well.  

Are you ready to take the next step toward sustainable infrastructure? Engage with ISI and explore the opportunities Envision offers: 

• Learn about membership benefits. 

• Enroll in ENV SP training and exams. 

• Discover guidance on project verification. 

• Sign up for ISI’s monthly newsletter. 

• Visit ISI’s website at sustainableinfrastructure.org/next-steps. 

The Envision framework is more than just a tool—it’s a pathway to transforming the water sector and other infrastructure industries. By addressing today’s pressing challenges and embedding sustainability into everyday practices, Envision is empowering organizations to lead with purpose. Whether you’re looking to improve project outcomes, achieve regulatory compliance, or demonstrate a commitment to environmental stewardship, Envision provides the roadmap for success. Let’s embrace this framework and build a more sustainable future together.  

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About the Author

Michaella Wittmann is a sustainability trailblazer with 25+ years of experience in green building, civil infrastructure, and ESG strategies. A LEED Fellow and founding force behind EcoMend Solutions, she mentors emerging leaders and champions sustainable innovation. In her spare time, she nurtures her passion for native plants and flowers.