Management Science for Complex Networks and Smart Water Grids: a case study in Italy

As the effects of climate change unfold and become more visible, infrastruc- tures, especially those related to the distribution of water are the most exposed to the deep changes expected in the next years. Water is fundamental for peo- ple, and for infrastructures like energy, waste, and food production. Water sus- tainability is then a fundamental aspect to address by an efficient use of the resources and the maintenance of quality standards adopting a management science perspective. Therefore, water industry and infrastructure need a deep transformation, and we claim that this transformation is the result of a synergy between different fields or research. Our paper presents a managerial framework based on a complex systems used to reshape and optimize in different meanings the performance of the water infrastructure through the development of a case study in Italy. Our framework, called Acque 2.0 (Water 2.0) is based on these pillars: 1. The current and future scenarios for water management 2. Management science and water 3. Digitalization of water infrastructure 4. Increase the network resiliency and quality of service using complex networks 5. Use of predic- tive maintenance methods based on network simulations and big data 6. Involve utilities, regulators, policy makers, and citizens 7. Remarks and conclusion. The case study will be developed in the municipality of Viareggio, characterized by old infrastructures, seasonal variation of population, and water scarcity.