Published 6 November 2025
Global whitepaper explores why we build public pools
Australian expertise is helping shape the global conversation on public pool planning and investment, with two Australians — RJ Houston and Warren Green — contributing to a new international whitepaper launched last week at the 29th IAKS Congress in Cologne, Germany.
The paper, Why Do We Build Pools?, was developed by the International Association for Sport and Leisure Facilities (IAKS) Pool Expert Circle. The group is chaired by Dr Stefan Kannewischer and consists of representatives from around the world with expertise in swimming pool planning, design, architecture, engineering, operations, safety, research and social impact.
Image: Warren & RJ (Australia) are joined by co-editors Frederic (Italy / France) & Gar (Ireland) at the launch event (29th IAKS Global Congress)
The Expert Circle’s purpose is to bring together global expertise, share knowledge and explore the purpose, value and impact of public swimming pools — positioning them not just as recreation venues, but as essential community infrastructure that supports health, inclusion, and wellbeing.
Royal Life Saving Australia’s RJ Houston, who served as one of the editors, launched the paper at the 29th IAKS Global Congress and led the drafting of the paper’s social impact sections, weaving in Royal Life Saving Australia’s research and case studies into the launch presentation.
“This paper seeks to elevate the global conversation about the purpose and value of public pools,” Mr Houston said. “It offers a shared ‘North Star’ for decision-makers — helping communities design aquatic facilities that reflect their needs and deliver lasting social benefit.”
The paper was co-authored by a team of international editors including Darryl Condon, Warren Green, Gar Holohan, Jens Øyas Møller, and Frédéric Tomarchio, with peer review by the wider IAKS Expert Circle, which also includes New Zealand’s Nick Yannakis, Director at Beca Engineering, and Australia’s Yvette Audet, who was recently re-elected as Vice President of IAKS International.
Australian consultant Warren Green, who contributed to the sections on planning and design, said the paper underscores the need for clear purpose in every pool project.
“For councils, architects, and community planners, this whitepaper brings together a wealth of global expertise,” Mr Green said. “It reminds us that every pool should be purpose-driven — meeting not only functional needs but contributing to the social fabric of its community.”
The Why Do We Build Pools? whitepaper offers a shared global framework for decision-makers, while encouraging local adaptation. It aims to guide governments, councils, and facility operators in designing pools that deliver lasting social value and community benefit.
The paper is available for download via the IAKS website:
https://iaks.sport/news/iaks-pools-expert-circle-publishes-paper-why-do-we-build-pools
